What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
harmed
Example
The accident harmed her physically and emotionally. [harmed: verb]
Example
The company's reputation was harmed by the scandal. [harmed: past participle]
damaged
Example
The storm damaged the roof of the house. [damaged: verb]
Example
The computer's hard drive was damaged beyond repair. [damaged: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Damaged is more commonly used than harmed in everyday language, especially in technical or professional contexts. Harmed is less common and tends to be used in personal or emotional contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between harmed and damaged?
Both harmed and damaged can be used in formal or informal contexts, but damaged is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
