What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
addict
Example
He was addicted to drugs and needed help to quit. [addicted: past participle]
Example
She's an addict and can't go a day without checking her phone. [addict: noun]
fiend
Example
He's a coffee fiend and can't start his day without a cup. [fiend: noun]
Example
She's fiending for some chocolate after dinner. [fiending: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Addict is a more common word than fiend in everyday language, especially when referring to substance abuse. However, fiend can be used in a variety of contexts and is still a recognizable word.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between addict and fiend?
Addict is a more formal word than fiend, which is more commonly used in informal conversation. However, both words can be used in a range of formality levels depending on the context.
