What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
abreaction
Example
The patient experienced abreaction during the therapy session, releasing years of pent-up emotions. [abreaction: noun]
Example
The therapist used abreaction techniques to help the patient confront and process their traumatic experiences. [abreaction: adjective]
purging
Example
I'm purging my closet of clothes I no longer wear. [purging: verb]
Example
The detox program involves purging the body of harmful toxins. [purging: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Purging is more commonly used than abreaction in everyday language. Purging is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while abreaction is a more specialized term used primarily in psychology or therapy.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between abreaction and purging?
Abreaction is a more formal term used primarily in clinical or therapeutic settings, while purging can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
