What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
overlooked
Example
The contribution of women in science has been overlooked for centuries. [overlooked: past participle]
Example
The company's potential for growth was overlooked by investors. [overlooked: verb]
neglect
Example
The child suffered from malnutrition due to neglect by their parents. [neglect: noun]
Example
The garden was neglected and overgrown with weeds. [neglect: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Neglect is more commonly used than overlooked in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of situations and has a stronger negative connotation. Overlooked is more commonly used in formal contexts, such as academic or professional writing.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between overlooked and neglect?
Overlooked is typically associated with a more formal tone, while neglect can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
