What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
omitting
Example
She was omitting important details from her report. [omitting: verb]
Example
The speaker was deliberately omitting certain facts from his presentation. [omitting: gerund or present participle]
overlooking
Example
I can't believe I was overlooking such an obvious mistake. [overlooking: verb]
Example
The manager was overlooking the safety concerns of his employees. [overlooking: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Overlooking is more commonly used than omitting in everyday language. Overlooking is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while omitting is less common and is typically used in specific contexts such as writing or editing.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between omitting and overlooking?
Both omitting and overlooking can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, omitting can have a more negative connotation, implying a deliberate attempt to conceal or deceive, which may make it less appropriate for formal settings.
