What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
leave
Example
I need to leave the party early to catch the last train. [leave: verb]
Example
He took a leave of absence from work to travel abroad. [leave: noun]
Example
The family decided to leave their old house and move to a new city. [leave: verb]
vacate
Example
The tenants must vacate the apartment by the end of the month. [vacate: verb]
Example
The CEO decided to vacate his position after the scandal. [vacate: verb]
Example
She vacated her seat on the board of directors to pursue other interests. [vacated: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Leave is more commonly used than vacate in everyday language, as it is more versatile and covers a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between leave and vacate?
Vacate is more formal than leave and is often used in legal or official contexts, while leave is more casual and informal.
