What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pervert
Example
He was arrested for being a pervert and exposing himself in public. [pervert: noun]
Example
She tried to pervert the course of justice by bribing the judge. [pervert: verb]
degenerate
Example
The degenerate behavior of the group led to their expulsion from the club. [degenerate: adjective]
Example
His addiction caused him to degenerate into a life of crime. [degenerate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pervert is more commonly used than degenerate in everyday language, especially in the context of sexual behavior or interests. Degenerate is less common and tends to be used in more formal or technical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between pervert and degenerate?
Both pervert and degenerate are considered to be formal words, but degenerate may be perceived as more clinical or objective due to its wider range of meanings.
