What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
caressing
Example
She gently caressed her baby's cheek, making them feel loved and secure. [caressed: past tense]
Example
He enjoyed caressing the soft fur of his pet cat, bringing them both joy and relaxation. [caressing: gerund or present participle]
stroking
Example
The therapist used stroking motions on the patient's back to help them relax. [stroking: noun]
Example
She enjoyed stroking her dog's fur, creating a bond between them. [stroking: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stroking is more commonly used than caressing in everyday language. Stroking is a versatile word that can be used in different situations, such as petting an animal or running fingers through someone's hair. On the other hand, caressing is less common and is often used in more specific and intimate contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between caressing and stroking?
Both caressing and stroking can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, caressing is generally associated with a more intimate and romantic tone, while stroking can be employed in a wider range of formality levels.
