What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
postponed
Example
The concert has been postponed until next week. [postponed: verb]
Example
We had to postpone our trip due to bad weather. [postponed: past participle]
defer
Example
I will defer my decision until I have more information. [defer: verb]
Example
He chose to defer to his boss's judgment on the matter. [defer: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Postponed is more commonly used than defer in everyday language, especially when referring to events or activities. Defer is more formal and less commonly used, but it can be useful in situations where showing respect or submission is necessary.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between postponed and defer?
Defer is generally considered more formal than postponed, and it is often used in professional or academic contexts. However, both words can be used in formal or informal contexts depending on the situation and tone of the communication.
