What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
purged
Example
The company purged all the outdated files from their database. [purged: past tense]
Example
She purged her closet of all the clothes she no longer wears. [purged: verb]
expunge
Example
The court ordered that his criminal record be expunged. [expunged: past participle]
Example
He asked the website to expunge all his personal information from their database. [expunge: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Purged is more commonly used than expunge in everyday language, as it can be used in various contexts. Expunge is less frequently used and is typically reserved for legal or administrative contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between purged and expunge?
Expunge is more formal than purged and is typically used in legal or administrative contexts. Purged is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.