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
The law firm has been in business for over 50 years. [firm: noun]
stable
Example
The table is stable and won't wobble. [stable: adjective]
Example
She remained emotionally stable throughout the crisis. [stable: adjective]
Example
The economy is finally becoming more stable after years of instability. [stable: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stable is more commonly used than firm in everyday language. Stable is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while firm is less common and has a more formal connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between firm and stable?
Firm is typically associated with a more formal tone, while stable can be used in both formal and informal contexts.