What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
addict
Example
He's an addict and needs help to overcome his addiction. [addict: noun]
Example
She became addicted to social media and spends hours scrolling through her feeds. [addicted: adjective]
junkie
Example
He was a heroin junkie for years before getting clean. [junkie: noun]
Example
She's a coffee junkie and can't start her day without a cup of joe. [junkie: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Addict is a more commonly used term than junkie in everyday language, especially in formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between addict and junkie?
Addict is a more formal term than junkie, and is therefore more appropriate to use in formal contexts such as academic writing or professional settings.
