What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
overrule
Example
The judge overruled the objection made by the defense attorney. [overruled: past tense verb]
Example
The supervisor overruled the manager's decision and chose a different course of action. [overrule: present tense verb]
quash
Example
The court quashed the indictment due to lack of evidence. [quashed: past tense verb]
Example
The government used force to quash the uprising and restore order. [quash: present tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Overrule is more commonly used than quash in everyday language, especially in legal contexts. Quash is less common and more specific to certain legal situations or acts of suppression.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between overrule and quash?
Both overrule and quash are formal words commonly used in legal contexts. However, quash can have a more negative or authoritarian connotation, making it less appropriate for some formal situations.
