The words "empty" and "vacant" are often confused, but there are key differences. "Empty" simply means containing nothing. "Vacant," on the other hand, usually refers to a space or place that is available to be used or occupied. Think of it this way: something can be empty of contents but not necessarily vacant, and something vacant is always empty.

Let's look at some examples:

• Empty: "The bottle is empty." (The bottle contains no liquid.) "The box is empty." (The box contains no items.)

• Vacant: "The apartment is vacant." (The apartment is available to rent.) "There are several vacant positions in the company." (Several jobs are available to fill.)

Here's a more nuanced example:

Consider a room. If the room has no furniture or belongings in it, it's empty. But if it's empty and is also available to be rented or used, then it's also vacant.

We can also use "vacant" to describe a look or expression:

• "His vacant stare showed a lack of awareness." (This suggests an absence of thought or emotion, not simply emptiness.)

The key is to consider the context. If the focus is on the lack of contents, use "empty." If the focus is on availability or readiness for use or occupation, use "vacant."

Happy learning!