What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
memorialising
Example
The city is memorialising the victims of the tragedy with a new monument. [memorialising: verb]
Example
The museum is dedicated to memorialising the history of the town. [memorialising: gerund or present participle]
commemorate
Example
We commemorate Veterans Day to honour those who have served in the military. [commemorate: verb]
Example
The statue was erected to commemorate the founder of the city. [commemorate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Commemorate is more commonly used than memorialising in everyday language. Commemorate is a more versatile word that can be used in a wider range of contexts, while memorialising is more specific and often associated with formal or solemn occasions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between memorialising and commemorate?
Both memorialising and commemorate can be used in formal contexts, but memorialising is often associated with a more serious or sombre tone, while commemorate can be used in both formal and informal settings.
