What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
refract
Example
The light refracted as it passed through the prism. [refracted: past tense]
Example
The pencil appeared bent because of the way the light refracted through the water. [refracted: verb]
disperse
Example
The wind dispersed the smoke from the fire. [dispersed: past tense]
Example
The crowd began to disperse after the concert ended. [disperse: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disperse is more commonly used than refract in everyday language. Disperse is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while refract is less common and is mostly used in scientific or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between refract and disperse?
Both refract and disperse are formal words that are commonly used in scientific or technical contexts. However, disperse can also be used in informal contexts, while refract is less versatile and is mostly used in formal or technical contexts.
