What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
assuring
Example
The doctor assured me that the test results were normal. [assured: past tense verb]
Example
She gave me an assuring smile, letting me know everything would be okay. [assuring: present participle]
comforting
Example
Her comforting words helped me feel better after the loss of my pet. [comforting: adjective]
Example
He hugged me tightly, offering comforting warmth during a tough time. [comforting: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Comforting is more commonly used than assuring in everyday language. Comforting is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while assuring is less common and tends to be used in more specific situations where certainty or guarantees are needed.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between assuring and comforting?
While assuring is often associated with a more formal or serious tone, comforting is generally used in a caring and empathetic manner, making it suitable for both formal and informal contexts.