What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
accrue
Example
Interest will accrue on your savings account each month. [accrue: verb]
Example
Over time, experience and knowledge will accrue and make you a better professional. [accrue: verb]
accumulate
Example
I need to declutter my house because I've accumulated too much stuff. [accumulated: past participle]
Example
If you don't pay off your credit card balance, interest will accumulate and make your debt worse. [accumulate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Accumulate is more commonly used than accrue in everyday language, due to its versatility and wider range of contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between accrue and accumulate?
Accrue is typically associated with a more formal tone, often used in financial or legal contexts, while accumulate is more neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
