What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
renounce
Example
He renounced his citizenship and moved to another country. [renounced: past tense]
Example
The politician renounced his former party and joined a new one. [renouncing: present participle]
abandon
Example
The ship was abandoned after it hit an iceberg. [abandoned: past tense]
Example
The mother abandoned her child at the hospital. [abandoning: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Abandon is more commonly used than renounce in everyday language. Abandon is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while renounce is less common and typically used in more formal or official settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between renounce and abandon?
Renounce is more formal and often used in legal or official contexts, while abandon is more informal and commonly used in everyday language.
