What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
backbreaking
Example
The construction workers had to endure backbreaking labor all day. [backbreaking: adjective]
Example
She felt the effects of the backbreaking work in her muscles the next day. [backbreaking: noun]
grueling
Example
The marathon was a grueling race that tested the endurance of the runners. [grueling: adjective]
Example
After a grueling day at work, she just wanted to relax and unwind. [grueling: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Grueling is more commonly used than backbreaking in everyday language. Grueling is a versatile word that can be applied to various situations, while backbreaking is less common and specifically associated with physically demanding work.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between backbreaking and grueling?
Both backbreaking and grueling are generally used in informal contexts. However, grueling can also be used in more formal settings to describe challenging and demanding situations.
