What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
firm
Example
The ground was firm beneath my feet. [firm: adjective]
Example
She held firm to her principles despite opposition. [firm: adverb]
Example
Our law firm has been in business for over 50 years. [firm: noun]
secure
Example
The door was locked and secure. [secure: adjective]
Example
Knowing that her family was safe and secure, she could finally relax. [secure: adjective]
Example
He felt secure in his position as a tenured professor. [secure: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Secure is more commonly used than firm in everyday language. Secure is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while firm is less common and refers to a specific type of stability.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between firm and secure?
Both firm and secure can be used in formal and informal contexts, but firm may be slightly more formal due to its association with business and finance.
