What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sequester
Example
The jury was sequestered during the trial to avoid any outside influence. [sequestered: past participle]
Example
The scientist sequestered the bacteria in a sterile environment to prevent contamination. [sequester: verb]
confiscate
Example
The police confiscated the drugs found in the suspect's car. [confiscated: past tense]
Example
The customs officer confiscated the traveler's knife at the airport security checkpoint. [confiscate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Confiscate is more commonly used than sequester in everyday language, especially in legal contexts. Sequester is less common and often used in specific situations such as legal proceedings or scientific research.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sequester and confiscate?
Sequester is typically associated with a formal tone, especially in legal contexts. Confiscate can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the situation.
