What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
quarantined
Example
The passengers on the flight were quarantined for two weeks after landing due to a suspected outbreak. [quarantined: past tense]
Example
The family was placed under quarantine after one member tested positive for COVID-19. [quarantined: adjective]
confined
Example
The cat was confined to a small room while the family was away. [confined: verb]
Example
The prisoners were confined to their cells for 23 hours a day. [confined: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Confined is more commonly used than quarantined in everyday language. Confined is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while quarantined is less common and is used primarily in the context of public health.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between quarantined and confined?
Both quarantined and confined can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, quarantined is more likely to be used in formal contexts due to its association with public health concerns.