What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
waive
Example
The athlete decided to waive his right to compete in the upcoming tournament. [waive: verb]
Example
The company decided to waive the late fee for the customer. [waiving: gerund or present participle]
relinquish
Example
The king was forced to relinquish his throne and flee the country. [relinquish: verb]
Example
She decided to relinquish her claim to the inheritance. [relinquishing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Relinquish is less common than waive in everyday language. Waive is more versatile and covers a wider range of contexts, while relinquish is more specific and formal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between waive and relinquish?
Relinquish is generally considered more formal than waive. It is often used in legal or official contexts, while waive can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
