What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
craze
Example
The new dance craze has taken over social media. [craze: noun]
Example
She was crazed about collecting vintage records. [crazed: adjective]
mania
Example
He had a mania for extreme sports and would do anything to get his adrenaline pumping. [mania: noun]
Example
The crowd's maniacal cheering could be heard from miles away. [maniacal: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Craze is more commonly used than mania in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and has a more neutral connotation. Mania is less common and is typically reserved for more extreme or clinical situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between craze and mania?
Mania is generally considered more formal than craze, as it is often used in medical or psychological contexts. However, both words can be used in a variety of formality levels depending on the context.