What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
memorialize
Example
The city decided to memorialize the fallen soldiers with a statue in the park. [memorialize: verb]
Example
The book was written to memorialize the life and achievements of the famous scientist. [memorialize: verb]
commemorate
Example
The country commemorates its independence day every year with a parade. [commemorates: verb]
Example
The museum held a special exhibit to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the moon landing. [commemorate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Commemorate is more commonly used than memorialize in everyday language. Commemorate is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while memorialize is less common and refers to a specific act of creating a memorial or preserving memories.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between memorialize and commemorate?
Both memorialize and commemorate can be used in formal and informal contexts, but memorialize may be perceived as more formal due to its association with physical monuments and preservation of memories.
