Disburse vs. Disperse – Which is Correct?
Disburse and disperse are two terms that are often confused due to their similar sounds but hold distinct meanings. Understanding the difference between these words is essential for proper usage in both written and spoken contexts. Disburse refers to the act of paying out or distributing money, while disperse concerns the act of scattering or spreading something over an area. This article will explore the definitions, usages, and distinctions between these two words.
Disburse or Disperse – Which is Correct?
Both words are correct, but they are used in different contexts. Disburse is specifically used in financial contexts, while disperse is used when talking about scattering or spreading out objects, people, or things.
| Word | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Disburse | When referring to paying out or distributing funds. | The organization will disburse the funds to the eligible recipients at the end of the month. |
| Disperse | When referring to scattering or spreading out. | The crowd began to disperse after the concert ended. |
How to Use Disburse
Disburse should be used when discussing the distribution of money or financial resources. It is often followed by the recipient of the funds.
Example 1: The grant will be disbursed in three installments.
Example 2: Employees can submit their expenses for disbursement.
Example 3: The charity is expected to disburse donations to local families in need.
What are the different forms of Disburse?
Disburse is a regular verb. Its base form is “to disburse.” The present tense would be “I disburse,” “you disburse,” “he/she/it disburses,” etc. The past tense is “I disbursed,” “you disbursed,” “he/she/it disbursed.” The future tense would be “I will disburse,” “you will disburse,” “he/she/it will disburse.” The present participle form is “disbursing,” while the past participle form is “disbursed.”
Etymology of the word Disburse
The word “disburse” originates from the Middle English word “disburse,” which means to pay out. It is derived from the Old French “disbourser,” which means to pay out, from the prefix “dis-” meaning ‘away’ and “bourser,” meaning ‘to purse’ or ‘to pay.’
How to Use Disperse
Disperse should be used when talking about spreading or scattering items or people over a wide area.
Example 1: The teacher asked the students to disperse into groups for the project.
Example 2: Rain clouds began to disperse, allowing the sun to shine through.
Example 3: The seeds from the dandelion disperse with the wind.
What are the different forms of Disperse?
Disperse is also a regular verb. Its base form is “to disperse.” The present tense would be “I disperse,” “you disperse,” “he/she/it disperses,” etc. The past tense is “I dispersed,” “you dispersed,” “he/she/it dispersed.” The future tense would be “I will disperse,” “you will disperse,” “he/she/it will disperse.” The present participle is “dispersing,” and the past participle form is “dispersed.”
Etymology of the word Disperse
The term “disperse” comes from the Latin word “dispersus,” which is the past participle of “dispergere,” meaning to scatter. The prefix “dis-” implies ‘apart’ or ‘asunder,’ while “spargere” means ‘to scatter’ or ‘to sprinkle.’
Practice Exercises
- The funds will be ________ to various charities later this year.
- The protesters began to ________ after the rally concluded.
- They decided to ________ the bonuses among all employees.
- As night fell, the crowd started to ________ from the park.
- The committee will ________ money for community programs.
Answer Key
- disbursed
- disperse
- disburse
- disperse
- disburse
Disburse Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| Distribute | To give out or hand over portions of something. |
| Allocate | To set apart for a specific purpose; to assign. |
| Pay out | To dispense or issue money from a fund. |
Disperse Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| Scatter | To spread out or distribute widely. |
| Dissipate | To disperse or cause to fade away. |
| Spread | To extend or distribute over a greater area. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the differences between disburse and disperse is vital for clear communication. Disburse is specifically related to financial transactions, while disperse pertains to scattering and spreading. Proper usage of these terms will enhance your writing and speaking clarity.
