What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
consolation
Example
Her kind words were a great consolation to me after my grandfather passed away. [consolation: noun]
Example
The team's win was a small consolation for their disappointing season. [consolation: adjective]
relief
Example
Taking a break from work was a relief after a long day. [relief: noun]
Example
I felt relieved when I found out that the test was postponed. [relieved: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Relief is more commonly used than consolation in everyday language. Relief is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while consolation is less common and refers to a more emotional or personal context.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between consolation and relief?
Both consolation and relief can be used in formal and informal contexts, but consolation may be perceived as more formal due to its emotional connotations.
