What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
angst
Example
He was filled with angst about the future of the planet. [angst: noun]
Example
She angsted over the decision for days. [angst: verb]
anxiety
Example
I have anxiety about flying on airplanes. [anxiety: noun]
Example
She anxiously waited for the test results. [anxiously: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Anxiety is a more common and everyday experience than angst. While angst is often associated with a more intellectual or artistic sensibility, anxiety is a more universal experience that affects many people in their daily lives.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between angst and anxiety?
Both angst and anxiety can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but anxiety is more commonly used in everyday language and is recognized as a formal mental health condition.
