What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hell
Example
According to some religions, sinners will go to hell after they die. [hell: noun]
Example
I'm going through hell trying to finish this project on time. [hell: idiom]
Example
The traffic was hellish during rush hour. [hellish: adjective]
netherworld
Example
In Greek mythology, Hades ruled the netherworld. [netherworld: noun]
Example
The abandoned house had an eerie netherworld feel to it. [netherworld: adjective]
Example
The truth about his past remained in the netherworld of secrets. [netherworld: metaphor]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hell is much more commonly used than netherworld in everyday language, especially in idiomatic expressions and strong language. Netherworld is more commonly used in literature, mythology, and formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hell and netherworld?
Netherworld is more formal and less commonly used in everyday language, while hell is more informal and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
