What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ostracize
Example
After the scandal, the company decided to ostracize the CEO and remove him from all decision-making processes. [ostracize: verb]
Example
The new student was ostracized by her classmates for being different. [ostracized: past participle]
expel
Example
The school board voted to expel the student for repeated violations of the code of conduct. [expel: verb]
Example
The security guard expelled the troublemaker from the concert venue. [expelled: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Expel is more commonly used than ostracize in everyday language, especially in formal or institutional contexts. Ostracize is less common and is often used in social or informal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ostracize and expel?
Expel is typically associated with a formal and serious tone, while ostracize can be employed in both formal and informal contexts, allowing it to be used in a wider range of situations.
