What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cliffhanger
Example
The movie ended on a cliffhanger, leaving the audience wondering what would happen next. [cliffhanger: noun]
Example
The TV show always leaves us on a cliffhanger at the end of each episode. [cliffhanger: adjective]
suspense
Example
The suspense in the novel kept me on the edge of my seat. [suspense: noun]
Example
The movie builds up suspense with its intense music and suspenseful scenes. [suspense: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Suspense is more commonly used than cliffhanger in everyday language. Suspense is a versatile term that can be applied to various situations and narratives, while cliffhanger is more specific to the ending of a story or episode.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cliffhanger and suspense?
Both cliffhanger and suspense can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, cliffhanger may be more commonly associated with informal or popular culture, while suspense can be used in a wider range of formality levels.
