What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
friction
Example
The friction between the tires and the road caused the car to slow down. [friction: noun]
Example
There was friction between the two coworkers due to their different work styles. [friction: noun]
tension
Example
The tension in the rope increased as more weight was added. [tension: noun]
Example
There was tension in the air as the students waited for their exam results. [tension: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Friction and tension are both commonly used words in everyday language, but friction is more commonly used in technical or scientific contexts related to physics or engineering.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between friction and tension?
Friction is often used in technical or scientific contexts, making it more formal than tension, which is more commonly used in everyday language and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
