extinct

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "extinct" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a species that no longer exists or has no living members. Example: "The dodo bird is a well-known example of an extinct species that was once native to Mauritius."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Many, like Edward O. Wilson, will worry about species that face extinction; but one extinct creature, the Pyrenean ibex, may actually be revived.

The Economist

If you could bring something extinct back to life, what would you choose?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The standard pop-psychology answer is that dinosaurs are big, fierce and extinct.

The Guardian - Opinion

Within a few years, the study of French at UK universities, already severely endangered, may well become extinct.

The Guardian - Opinion

Critics may point out some omissions, such as Rustie's Glass Swords – a Technicolor rave-pop record that won the Guardian's first album award, or Evolve or Be Extinct, the latest grime offering from Wiley.

The Guardian - Music

And when we look at the bones of the extinct, non-avian dinosaurs that haunt our imagination, we're faced with a seemingly infinite number of questions about how they lived.

The Guardian - Opinion

For one thing, there are scores of other prehistoric beasties that fit the description of "big, fierce and extinct" that aren't nearly as popular as dinosaurs.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Japanese fear that their fishing industry is next (quite rightly: fishing blue-fin tuna is close to sending the species extinct).

The Guardian - Opinion

She spent long vigils lying, mud-splattered in the marshes, lens poking from vegetation, in pursuit of elusive water rails, bearded tits and a juvenile bittern, and her pictures proved the latter species was not extinct in Britain after all.

The Guardian

In the end, we rustled up the promise of feeding wild monkeys in the island's mountainous Grand Etang Forest Reserve in exchange for a spice farm, a botanical garden, a rum distillery, an extinct volcano, a nutmeg factory and an organic chocolate producer.

The Guardian - Travel

"If the asteroid didn't hit, I have no reason to believe they'd have gone extinct.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing endangered species, use "extinct in the wild" to specify that a species only exists in captivity, offering a more nuanced understanding of its conservation status.

Common error

Avoid using "extinct" when you mean "endangered". "Endangered" species still exist, but are at risk of extinction, whereas "extinct" species no longer exist.

Linguistic Context

The word "extinct" primarily functions as an adjective. It describes something that no longer exists or is no longer active. As Ludwig AI confirms, this term is widely recognized and suitable for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "extinct" is a common adjective used to describe something that no longer exists, particularly in the context of species, languages, or practices. As Ludwig AI states, it is grammatically correct and widely used, primarily in news, science, and formal business settings. When using this term, ensure it's not confused with "endangered", and specify the context for clarity. Several alternative phrases, such as "nonexistent" and "defunct", can be used to provide nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Nonexistent

Focuses on the state of not existing, emphasizing the absence of something.

No longer extant

A more formal and scientific way of saying something is no longer in existence.

Wiped out

Implies a complete and often sudden removal or destruction.

Died out

Specifically refers to the end of a species or population through natural processes or external factors.

Defunct

Describes something that is no longer functioning or in use, often referring to organizations or systems.

Disappeared from the face of the earth

Highlights the complete and irreversible disappearance of something.

Vanished

Suggests a disappearance, often mysterious or unexplained.

Obsolete

Indicates something that is out of date or no longer in use, applicable to technologies or practices.

Lost forever

Emphasizes the permanent nature of the disappearance or cessation.

Passed away

Euphemistic term for death, often used to describe the end of a species or lineage.

FAQs

How can I use "extinct" in a sentence?

You can use "extinct" to describe something that no longer exists, such as "Dinosaurs are an extinct group of reptiles" or "The use of typewriters is nearly extinct".

What are some synonyms for "extinct"?

Alternatives to "extinct" include "nonexistent", "defunct", "vanished", or "no longer extant", depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "extinct" and "endangered"?

"Extinct" means that a species or thing no longer exists. "Endangered", on the other hand, means that a species is at risk of becoming extinct.

Can "extinct" apply to things other than animals?

Yes, "extinct" can describe anything that no longer exists or is in use. For example, you can say that a language is extinct or that a certain technology is becoming extinct.