What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
misplace
Example
I seem to have misplaced my keys again. [misplaced: past participle]
Example
I can't find my phone, I must have misplaced it somewhere. [misplace: verb]
displace
Example
The earthquake caused the bookshelf to displace from the wall. [displace: verb]
Example
The new manager displaced the old one and took over his position. [displaced: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Misplace is more commonly used than displace in everyday language. Misplace is a common word used to describe losing or misplacing personal belongings, while displace is a less common word used to describe larger objects or more significant changes.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between misplace and displace?
Both misplace and displace are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
