What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hardness
Example
The diamond's hardness makes it ideal for cutting other materials. [hardness: noun]
Example
The wood's hardness made it difficult to carve intricate designs. [hardness: noun]
stiffness
Example
The metal's stiffness made it difficult to bend into the desired shape. [stiffness: noun]
Example
The new shoes felt uncomfortable due to their stiffness. [stiffness: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hardness is more commonly used than stiffness in everyday language, especially in the context of describing the physical properties of materials. Stiffness is more commonly used in technical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hardness and stiffness?
Both hardness and stiffness are formal terms used in technical or scientific contexts. However, hardness is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while stiffness is more technical and less commonly used in everyday language.
