What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
refracting
Example
The light refracted as it passed through the glass lens. [refracted: past tense verb]
Example
The refracting telescope uses lenses to bend and focus light. [refracting: present participle]
displacing
Example
The earthquake caused the ground to displace several meters. [displace: verb]
Example
The new policy displaced the old one. [displaced: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Displacing is more commonly used than refracting in everyday language. Displacing is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while refracting is more specific and technical.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between refracting and displacing?
Both refracting and displacing can be used in formal or technical contexts, but refracting is more likely to be used in scientific or academic settings, while displacing can be used in a wider range of formal or informal contexts.
