What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
benumb
Example
The cold wind benumbed my fingers, and I couldn't feel them anymore. [benumb: verb]
Example
The shocking news seemed to benumb her, and she couldn't react for a few moments. [benumbing: gerund or present participle]
numb
Example
After sitting in the same position for hours, my legs became numb. [numb: adjective]
Example
The tragic event left her numb with grief, unable to process her emotions. [numb: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Numb is more commonly used than benumb in everyday language. Numb is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while benumb is less common and may be found in more formal or literary writing.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between benumb and numb?
While benumb may sound more formal or literary, numb is more commonly used in both formal and informal contexts.
