What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
underused
Example
The library's resources are underused by the community. [underused: adjective]
Example
She has an underused talent for painting. [underused: adjective]
unused
Example
The box of pencils is still unused. [unused: adjective]
Example
There are many unused rooms in the building. [unused: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unused is more commonly used than underused in everyday language. Unused is a more general term that can be applied to a wide range of contexts, while underused is more specific and often used in professional or academic settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between underused and unused?
Both underused and unused are relatively formal words, but unused is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
