What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
peculate
Example
The accountant was caught trying to peculate funds from the company. [peculate: verb]
Example
The politician was accused of peculation of public funds. [peculation: noun]
misappropriate
Example
He misappropriated the company's equipment for his own personal use. [misappropriate: verb]
Example
The manager was accused of misappropriation of company funds. [misappropriation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Misappropriate is more commonly used in everyday language than peculate. Peculate is more specific and formal, and is often used in legal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between peculate and misappropriate?
Peculate is more formal than misappropriate, and is often used in legal or official contexts. Misappropriate is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.