What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
perish
Example
Many animals perish during the harsh winter months. [perish: verb]
Example
The food will perish if left out in the sun for too long. [perish: verb]
Example
The company's reputation could perish if they don't address the issue. [perish: verb]
vanish
Example
The magician made the rabbit vanish from the hat. [vanish: verb]
Example
The ship vanished into the fog, leaving no trace behind. [vanished: past participle]
Example
Her anxiety vanished once she started meditating. [vanished: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Vanish is more commonly used than perish in everyday language. Vanish is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while perish is less common and typically used in more serious or formal situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between perish and vanish?
While vanish can be used in both formal and informal contexts, perish is typically associated with a more serious and formal tone, often used in academic or scientific writing.
