What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
submerge
Example
The submarine will submerge to avoid detection. [submerge: verb]
Example
The floodwaters will submerge the entire town. [submerge: verb]
Example
She tried to submerge her emotions and put on a brave face. [submerge: verb]
immerse
Example
She immersed the dirty dishes in soapy water. [immerse: verb]
Example
He was so immersed in his book that he didn't hear me come in. [immersed: adjective]
Example
I want to immerse myself in the local culture while I'm traveling. [immerse: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Immerse is more commonly used than submerge in everyday language. Immerse is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while submerge is less common and often used in specific situations, such as diving or flooding.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between submerge and immerse?
Both submerge and immerse can be used in formal and informal contexts, but immerse is more commonly used in academic or professional settings due to its metaphorical and abstract usage.