What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dumbness
Example
The child was born with dumbness and could not speak. [dumbness: noun]
Example
His dumbness in math made it difficult for him to pass the test. [dumbness: noun]
foolishness
Example
It was foolishness to go out without an umbrella in the rain. [foolishness: noun]
Example
She regretted her foolishness in trusting a stranger with her money. [foolishness: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Foolishness is more commonly used than dumbness in everyday language. Foolishness is a more versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while dumbness is limited to the inability to speak or communicate verbally.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between dumbness and foolishness?
Both dumbness and foolishness are informal words that are not typically used in formal contexts. However, dumbness may be considered more offensive or outdated than foolishness when used to describe someone's inability to speak.
