What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
chafing
Example
After running a marathon, I developed chafing on my thighs from the constant friction. [chafing: noun]
Example
She applied some lotion to prevent chafing between her toes while wearing new shoes. [chafing: gerund or present participle]
abrasion
Example
He fell off his bike and got an abrasion on his knee. [abrasion: noun]
Example
The rough sandpaper caused abrasions on the surface of the wood. [abrasions: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Chafing is more commonly used than abrasion in everyday language, especially when referring to skin irritation or soreness caused by friction. Abrasion is more specific and often used in medical or technical contexts to describe a scrape or graze on the skin.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between chafing and abrasion?
While chafing is commonly used in informal and casual contexts, abrasion is more formal and often used in medical or technical discussions.
