What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
affright
Example
The loud noise affrighted the small child. [affrighted: past tense verb]
Example
She was filled with affright at the sight of the monster. [affright: noun]
alarm
Example
The fire alarm went off, and everyone evacuated the building. [alarm: noun]
Example
The news of the impending storm alarmed the residents of the coastal town. [alarmed: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Alarm is a more common word than affright and is used in a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between affright and alarm?
Affright is a more formal and archaic word than alarm, which is more commonly used in everyday language and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
