What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
grow
Example
The flowers in my garden are growing quickly this season. [grow: verb]
Example
The company hopes to grow its business by expanding into new markets. [grow: verb]
Example
I want to grow as a person and learn new things. [grow: verb]
thrive
Example
The business is thriving in the current market conditions. [thrive: verb]
Example
The plants in this garden thrive in full sunlight. [thrive: verb]
Example
She seems to thrive on challenges and always performs well under pressure. [thrive: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Grow is more commonly used than thrive in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and has a more neutral connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between grow and thrive?
Both grow and thrive can be used in formal and informal contexts, but thrive may be more appropriate in professional or business settings where success and prosperity are emphasized.