What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
confront
Example
I had to confront my fear of heights when I went skydiving. [confront: verb]
Example
She confronted her coworker about their rude behavior in the meeting. [confronted: past tense]
Example
The firefighters had to confront the raging flames to save the building. [confront: verb]
address
Example
We need to address the issue of climate change before it's too late. [address: verb]
Example
The company is addressing the problem of low employee morale by implementing new policies. [addressing: present participle]
Example
The president addressed the nation about the recent crisis. [addressed: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Address is more commonly used than confront in everyday language. Address is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while confront is less common and often used in more specific or intense situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between confront and address?
Both confront and address can be used in formal or informal contexts, but address is generally considered more neutral and appropriate for a wider range of situations.
