What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
analgesic
Example
I took an analgesic for my headache. [analgesic: noun]
Example
The doctor prescribed an analgesic cream for my sore muscles. [analgesic: adjective]
sedative
Example
The dentist gave me a sedative before the procedure. [sedative: noun]
Example
The herbal tea has a sedative effect that helps me sleep. [sedative: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Analgesic is more commonly used than sedative in everyday language, as pain relief is a more common medical concern than anxiety or nervousness. However, both terms are widely used in medical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between analgesic and sedative?
Analgesic and sedative are both formal terms used in medical contexts. They may not be commonly used in casual conversation, but are important to know for discussing medical treatments and conditions.
