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 provided great comfort after a long day. [comfort: noun]
Example
She comforted her friend with kind words during a difficult time. [comforted: past tense verb]
relief
Example
Taking pain medication brought him relief from his headache. [relief: noun]
Example
She felt relieved when she found out her flight was not canceled. [relieved: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Comfort is more commonly used than relief in everyday language. Comfort is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while relief is more specific and often used in situations where there is a removal or reduction of pain, stress, or discomfort.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between comfort and relief?
Both comfort and relief can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, comfort is generally associated with a more casual and informal tone, while relief can be used in more formal situations such as medical or professional settings.
