What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
headache
Example
I have a headache after staring at the computer screen for too long. [headache: noun]
Example
She complained of headaches due to the hot weather. [headaches: plural noun]
migraine
Example
She had to cancel her plans due to a migraine attack. [migraine: noun]
Example
He suffers from migraines that can last for days. [migraines: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Headache is more commonly used than migraine in everyday language since it is a more common type of head pain. However, migraine is a well-known medical condition that affects many people worldwide.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between headache and migraine?
Both headache and migraine are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
