What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
uninhabited
Example
The island was completely uninhabited, with no signs of human life. [uninhabited: adjective]
Example
The forest was so dense and uninhabited that it took us hours to find our way out. [uninhabited: adjective]
vacant
Example
The apartment has been vacant for months, with no interested renters. [vacant: adjective]
Example
The chair next to me is vacant, feel free to sit down. [vacant: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Vacant is more commonly used than uninhabited in everyday language. Vacant is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while uninhabited is less common and refers to more specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between uninhabited and vacant?
Both uninhabited and vacant are neutral in terms of formality, and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.