What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
frighten
Example
The loud noise frightened the cat. [frightened: verb]
Example
She was frightened by the horror movie. [frightened: past participle]
alarm
Example
The smoke alarm went off, and we had to evacuate the building. [alarm: noun]
Example
The news of the earthquake alarmed the residents. [alarmed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Alarm is more commonly used than frighten in everyday language, especially in the context of safety or emergency preparedness. Frighten is less common and is typically used in personal contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between frighten and alarm?
Both frighten and alarm can be used in formal and informal contexts, but alarm is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts, including professional and technical settings.
