What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
acuity
Example
The patient's visual acuity was tested using an eye chart. [acuity: noun]
Example
The detective's mental acuity helped him solve the complex case. [acuity: noun]
acuteness
Example
The acuteness of the pain in her leg made it difficult to walk. [acuteness: noun]
Example
The acuteness of his anger was evident in his tone of voice. [acuteness: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Acuity is more commonly used in medical or scientific contexts, while acuteness is more often used in everyday language to describe emotions or sensations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between acuity and acuteness?
Both acuity and acuteness are formal words that may not be commonly used in casual conversation. However, acuity is more versatile and can be used in various formality levels, while acuteness is more likely to be used in informal contexts.