What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
comprehensive
Example
The report provides a comprehensive overview of the company's financial performance. [comprehensive: adjective]
Example
She conducted a comprehensive review of the literature before starting her research. [comprehensive: adjective]
exhaustive
Example
The detective conducted an exhaustive search for evidence at the crime scene. [exhaustive: adjective]
Example
The team conducted an exhaustive analysis of the data to identify trends and patterns. [exhaustive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Comprehensive is more commonly used than exhaustive in everyday language, as it is more versatile and covers a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between comprehensive and exhaustive?
Both comprehensive and exhaustive can be used in formal and academic contexts, but exhaustive may be perceived as more technical or specialized due to its more specific connotation.
