What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
grimace
Example
She grimaced in pain as she tried to stand up. [grimaced: past tense]
Example
He made a grimace when he tasted the sour milk. [grimace: noun]
sneer
Example
She sneered at him when he suggested the idea. [sneered: past tense]
Example
He had a sneer on his face as he talked about his ex-girlfriend. [sneer: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Grimace is more commonly used than sneer in everyday language. Grimace is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while sneer is less common and often used in specific situations where contempt or disdain is being expressed.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between grimace and sneer?
While grimace is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, sneer is more formal and often used in professional or academic settings to express criticism or disapproval.
