What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mismatch
Example
The shirt and pants are a mismatch, they don't go well together. [mismatch: noun]
Example
There is a mismatch between the job requirements and the candidate's skills. [mismatch: noun]
Example
The data shows a mismatch between the predicted and actual results. [mismatch: noun]
discrepancy
Example
There is a discrepancy between the amount of money in the account and the bank statement. [discrepancy: noun]
Example
The report highlights discrepancies in the company's financial records. [discrepancies: noun]
Example
The research found a discrepancy between the theory and the experimental results. [discrepancy: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mismatch is more commonly used than discrepancy in everyday language, especially in informal contexts. Discrepancy is more often used in technical or formal contexts, such as data analysis, evaluation, or research.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mismatch and discrepancy?
Discrepancy is generally considered more formal than mismatch, and is often used in technical or academic writing. However, both words can be used in various formality levels depending on the context.
