What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hurts
Example
My head hurts so much after hitting it on the door. [hurts: verb]
Example
The athlete was taken out of the game due to a hurt ankle. [hurt: noun]
Example
It hurts me to see you upset like this. [hurts: verb]
aches
Example
My back aches after sitting at my desk all day. [aches: verb]
Example
I have been experiencing aches and pains all over my body. [aches: noun]
Example
My heart aches for those who are suffering. [aches: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Aches is more commonly used than hurts in everyday language. Aches is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while hurts is less common and often used in more specific situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between hurts and aches?
Both hurts and aches are generally informal and can be used in casual conversations. However, hurts may be more appropriate in medical or professional settings due to its association with specific injuries or wounds.
