What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
wastage
Example
The wastage of food in this restaurant is unacceptable. [wastage: noun]
Example
There was a lot of wastage in the production process, resulting in increased costs. [wastage: noun]
depletion
Example
The depletion of fossil fuels is a major concern for the environment. [depletion: noun]
Example
The overuse of groundwater has led to its depletion in many regions. [depletion: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Wastage is more commonly used in everyday language, while depletion is more commonly used in technical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between wastage and depletion?
Depletion is generally considered more formal than wastage, as it is often used in technical or scientific writing.