What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
crick
Example
I got a crick in my neck from sleeping in an awkward position. [crick: noun]
Example
She cricked her back while lifting the heavy box. [cricked: past tense verb]
ache
Example
My head aches from staring at the computer screen all day. [ache: verb]
Example
She has been experiencing an ache in her lower back for weeks. [ache: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ache is more commonly used than crick in everyday language. Ache is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while crick is less common and may be considered informal or colloquial.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between crick and ache?
While crick is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, ache is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.