What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gruelling
Example
The marathon was a gruelling test of endurance. [gruelling: adjective]
Example
The team went through a gruelling practice session to prepare for the game. [gruelling: adjective]
exhausting
Example
The hike up the mountain was exhausting, but the view from the top was worth it. [exhausting: adjective]
Example
After a long day at work, I feel too exhausted to do anything else. [exhausted: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Exhausting is more commonly used than gruelling in everyday language. Exhausting is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while gruelling is less common and often used in specific contexts such as sports or fitness.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between gruelling and exhausting?
Both gruelling and exhausting are formal words that can be used in professional or academic contexts. However, gruelling may be more commonly used in sports or fitness contexts, while exhausting may be more commonly used in everyday language.