What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
frantically
Example
She searched frantically for her lost keys. [frantically: adverb]
Example
The firefighters worked frantically to put out the raging fire. [frantically: adverb]
desperately
Example
He was desperately in need of medical attention. [desperately: adverb]
Example
She desperately wanted to win the competition. [desperately: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Desperately is more commonly used than frantically in everyday language. Desperately is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while frantically is less common and is typically used in situations where there is a need for immediate action.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between frantically and desperately?
Both frantically and desperately are informal words that are suitable for casual conversations or informal writing. However, desperately can also be used in formal contexts to convey a sense of urgency or importance.
