What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
anstoss
Example
The success of her friend's business was the anstoss she needed to start her own. [anstoss: noun]
Example
The coach's pep talk provided the anstoss the team needed to give their best performance. [anstoss: noun]
impetus
Example
The recent economic crisis provided the impetus for the government to implement new policies. [impetus: noun]
Example
Her passion for art gave her the impetus to pursue a career in painting. [impetus: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Impetus is more commonly used than anstoss in everyday English language. Impetus is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while anstoss is less common and primarily used in German-speaking countries.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between anstoss and impetus?
While impetus is generally considered more formal, anstoss is less formal and primarily used in specific regions. Impetus can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while anstoss is more commonly used in informal settings or in German-speaking countries.