What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
grieved
Example
She grieved for weeks after her cat passed away. [grieved: verb]
Example
The family gathered to grieve together and support each other. [grieve: verb]
bereaved
Example
The bereaved family received condolences from friends and relatives. [bereaved: adjective]
Example
She felt bereaved after her husband passed away. [bereaved: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Grieved is more commonly used than bereaved in everyday language. Grieved is a more general term that can be used in a variety of contexts, while bereaved is more specific and is typically used in the context of death and mourning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between grieved and bereaved?
Both grieved and bereaved are formal words that are commonly used in serious or sensitive situations, such as obituaries, condolence messages, or legal documents related to inheritance or insurance.
