What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unrelated
Example
The article was about politics, but the author included unrelated information about their personal life. [unrelated: adjective]
Example
I'm not sure why you're bringing up that topic - it's completely unrelated to what we're discussing. [unrelated: adjective]
irrelevant
Example
I don't see how your comment is relevant to the topic we're discussing. [irrelevant: adjective]
Example
The speaker kept making irrelevant points that didn't address the main issue. [irrelevant: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Irrelevant is more commonly used than unrelated in everyday language. Irrelevant is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while unrelated is less common and refers to a more specific lack of connection.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between unrelated and irrelevant?
Both unrelated and irrelevant are neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
