What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
engorged
Example
The tick was engorged with blood after feeding on the dog. [engorged: adjective]
Example
Her breasts were engorged with milk after giving birth. [engorged: adjective]
swollen
Example
His ankle was swollen after twisting it during the game. [swollen: adjective]
Example
Her eyes were swollen from crying all night. [swollen: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Swollen is more commonly used than engorged in everyday language. Swollen is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while engorged is less common and often has a specific medical or sexual connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between engorged and swollen?
Both engorged and swollen can be used in formal or informal contexts, but engorged may be considered more informal due to its sexual connotation.
