What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
aspirin
Example
I have a headache, so I'm going to take an aspirin. [aspirin: noun]
Example
The doctor recommended taking aspirin to reduce the inflammation in my knee. [aspirin: gerund or present participle]
painkiller
Example
I need a painkiller for my toothache. [painkiller: noun]
Example
She took a painkiller to relieve the pain in her back. [painkiller: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Painkiller is a more common term used in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of medications used for pain relief. Aspirin is a specific type of painkiller and is commonly known but may not be used as frequently in conversation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between aspirin and painkiller?
Both aspirin and painkiller can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, aspirin may be perceived as slightly more formal due to its specific medical classification as an NSAID.
