What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
congested
Example
The highway was congested with cars during rush hour. [congested: adjective]
Example
I have a congested nose and can't breathe properly. [congested: verb]
clogged
Example
The sink is clogged and won't drain properly. [clogged: verb]
Example
The street was clogged with cars and pedestrians. [clogged: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Congested is more commonly used than clogged in everyday language, especially in the context of traffic or nasal passages. Clogged is less common but still widely understood.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between congested and clogged?
Both congested and clogged are relatively formal words that are appropriate for use in professional or academic contexts.