What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dumbness
Example
The accident left him with permanent dumbness. [dumbness: noun]
Example
I was struck by sudden dumbness and couldn't answer the question. [dumbness: noun]
stupidity
Example
It was an act of sheer stupidity to leave the keys in the car. [stupidity: noun]
Example
He showed his stupidity by not studying for the exam. [stupidity: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stupidity is more commonly used than dumbness in everyday language. Stupidity is a more versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while dumbness is less common and typically used in medical or technical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between dumbness and stupidity?
Both dumbness and stupidity are informal words that are generally not used in formal settings. However, dumbness may be more acceptable in technical or medical contexts where it is used to describe a specific condition or symptom.