What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
treason
Example
The spy was charged with treason for selling classified information to a foreign government. [treason: noun]
Example
The general was accused of committing treason by plotting to overthrow the government. [treason: gerund or present participle]
insurrection
Example
The insurrectionists stormed the Capitol building in an attempt to overturn the election results. [insurrection: noun]
Example
The rebels planned an insurrection against the corrupt regime. [insurrection: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Treason is a more common word than insurrection and is often used in legal and political contexts. Insurrection is less common and is typically used to describe violent uprisings or rebellions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between treason and insurrection?
Both treason and insurrection are formal words and are typically used in serious or legal contexts.
