What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
oust
Example
The shareholders voted to oust the CEO due to poor performance. [oust: verb]
Example
The landlord threatened to oust the tenants if they didn't pay their rent. [oust: verb]
Example
The team decided to oust the captain for violating team rules. [oust: verb]
dismiss
Example
The company decided to dismiss several employees due to budget cuts. [dismiss: verb]
Example
The manager dismissed the employee's proposal as unrealistic. [dismiss: verb]
Example
The teacher dismissed the class early due to a power outage. [dismiss: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dismiss is more commonly used than oust in everyday language and is considered more versatile in terms of formality. Oust is less common and is often used in specific contexts, such as politics or business.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between oust and dismiss?
Dismiss is more versatile in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while oust is typically associated with a more formal or serious tone and is less commonly used in everyday language.