What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
overlap
Example
The two circles overlap in the middle. [overlap: verb]
Example
There is an overlap between the two departments' responsibilities. [overlap: noun]
intersect
Example
The two roads intersect at the traffic light. [intersect: verb]
Example
The interests of the two groups intersected at environmental conservation. [intersect: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Overlap is more commonly used in everyday language, while intersect is more technical and often used in mathematical or geometric contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between overlap and intersect?
Intersect is more formal than overlap, which is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
