What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
phaseout
Example
The company plans to phase out its older models of smartphones. [phase out: verb]
Example
The phaseout of fossil fuels is necessary to combat climate change. [phaseout: noun]
discontinue
Example
The company decided to discontinue the production of its least popular product. [discontinue: verb]
Example
Due to budget cuts, the school had to discontinue its music program. [discontinue: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Discontinue is more commonly used than phaseout in everyday language. Discontinue is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while phaseout is less common and is typically used in the context of products, services, or technologies.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between phaseout and discontinue?
Both phaseout and discontinue are formal words that are appropriate for use in professional or academic settings.
