What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
comfort
Example
The soft cushions on the couch provide great comfort. [comfort: noun]
Example
She comforted her friend with kind words after a difficult day. [comforted: verb]
consolation
Example
He offered his condolences as a consolation to the grieving family. [condolences: noun]
Example
Music has always been a source of consolation for her during tough times. [consolation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Comfort is more commonly used than consolation in everyday language. Comfort is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while consolation is less common and is typically used in specific situations where support or solace is needed.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between comfort and consolation?
Both comfort and consolation can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, comfort is generally associated with a more casual and informal tone, while consolation can carry a slightly more formal or sympathetic connotation.
