What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
alleviate
Example
The medication helped alleviate her headache. [alleviate: verb]
Example
We donated money to alleviate the suffering of those affected by the natural disaster. [alleviate: verb]
mitigate
Example
The company implemented measures to mitigate the environmental impact of their operations. [mitigate: verb]
Example
The lawyer argued that his client's actions were mitigated by the circumstances. [mitigated: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Alleviate is more commonly used than mitigate in everyday language, especially in the context of physical or emotional pain. Mitigate is more commonly used in technical or professional contexts, such as risk management or environmental protection.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between alleviate and mitigate?
Mitigate is generally considered more formal than alleviate, due to its technical and strategic connotation. However, both words can be used in formal and informal contexts depending on the situation and audience.
