What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
accumulated
Example
She accumulated a large collection of books over the years. [accumulated: past tense]
Example
The dust had accumulated on the shelves, making them look dirty. [accumulated: verb]
amassed
Example
He amassed a fortune through his successful business ventures. [amassed: past tense]
Example
The company has amassed a large following on social media. [amassed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Accumulated is more common in everyday language than amassed, which is more formal and less frequently used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between accumulated and amassed?
Amassed is more formal than accumulated, and is often used in more professional or academic contexts.