What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
Herculean
Example
The athlete's herculean effort in the final minutes of the game led to their victory. [herculean: adjective]
Example
He lifted the heavy box with herculean strength. [herculean: noun]
Sturdy
Example
The sturdy bridge was able to withstand the strong winds and heavy rain. [sturdy: adjective]
Example
She is a sturdy hiker and can handle difficult terrain with ease. [sturdy: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sturdy is more commonly used than Herculean in everyday language. Sturdy is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while Herculean is less common and is often used in more specific or dramatic situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between Herculean and Sturdy?
Both Herculean and sturdy can be used in formal and informal contexts, but Herculean may be more associated with a formal or literary tone due to its mythological origins.