What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
profligate
Example
He was known for his profligate spending habits, often buying expensive cars and designer clothes. [profligate: adjective]
Example
The profligate lifestyle of the wealthy elite was criticized by many. [profligate: noun]
wasteful
Example
Leaving the lights on all night is wasteful and bad for the environment. [wasteful: adjective]
Example
Throwing away perfectly good food is a wasteful habit. [wasteful: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Wasteful is more commonly used than profligate in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and is more versatile in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between profligate and wasteful?
Both profligate and wasteful are formal words that are typically used in more serious or academic contexts, rather than casual conversation.
