What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
renege
Example
He reneged on his promise to help me move. [renege: verb]
Example
The company decided to renege on their offer of a signing bonus. [renege: verb]
default
Example
If you default on your loan, your credit score will be negatively affected. [default: verb]
Example
The default option for the printer was double-sided printing. [default: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Default is more commonly used than renege in everyday language, particularly in financial or legal contexts. Renege is less common and is typically used in personal or business relationships.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between renege and default?
Both renege and default are formal words that are typically used in professional or legal contexts. However, default is more versatile and can also be used in everyday language, while renege is less common and may sound overly formal in casual conversation.
