What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unused
Example
The unused gym equipment was sold at a discount. [unused: adjective]
Example
I have some unused vacation days that I need to take before the end of the year. [unused: adjective]
unoccupied
Example
The unoccupied house had been on the market for months. [unoccupied: adjective]
Example
The company was looking for someone to fill the unoccupied position. [unoccupied: adjective]
Example
I have an unoccupied hour between meetings, so I can grab lunch then. [unoccupied: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unused is more commonly used than unoccupied in everyday language. Unused is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while unoccupied is less common and refers to a more specific type of vacancy.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between unused and unoccupied?
Both unused and unoccupied are neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.