What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
distressed
Example
She looked distressed after hearing the news. [distressed: adjective]
Example
The table was painted with a distressed finish to give it an antique look. [distressed: past participle]
troubled
Example
He had a troubled expression on his face after the argument. [troubled: adjective]
Example
The company is facing troubled times due to the economic downturn. [troubled: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Troubled is more commonly used than distressed in everyday language. Troubled is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while distressed is less common and has a more specific usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between distressed and troubled?
Both distressed and troubled can be used in formal and informal contexts, but distressed may have a slightly more formal connotation due to its association with financial distress.
