What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
distraught
Example
She was distraught when she heard the news of her father's passing. [distraught: adjective]
Example
The student was so distraught after failing the exam that he couldn't focus on anything else. [distraught: adjective]
distressed
Example
The distressed mother was worried sick about her missing child. [distressed: adjective]
Example
He looked distressed and uncomfortable in his ill-fitting suit. [distressed: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Distressed is more commonly used than distraught in everyday language. Distressed is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while distraught is less common and has a more specific usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between distraught and distressed?
Both distraught and distressed are formal words that can be used in serious or professional contexts, such as legal or medical documents.
