What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
arouse
Example
The loud noise aroused me from my deep sleep. [aroused: past tense]
Example
The movie aroused strong emotions in the audience. [aroused: verb]
awaken
Example
I awaken early every morning to start my day. [awaken: present tense]
Example
The beautiful sunrise awakened a sense of awe in me. [awakened: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Awaken is more commonly used than arouse in everyday language. Awaken is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while arouse is less common and typically used in more formal or written settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between arouse and awaken?
While arouse is generally associated with a more formal tone, awaken can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it a more versatile word.
