What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
impatient
Example
She grew impatient waiting in line at the store. [impatient: adjective]
Example
He tapped his foot impatiently as he waited for the bus. [impatiently: adverb]
anxious
Example
She felt anxious about her upcoming exam. [anxious: adjective]
Example
He was anxious to hear back from the job interview. [anxious: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Impatient is more commonly used than anxious in everyday language. Impatient is a common feeling that people experience when they have to wait for something, while anxiety is a more intense emotion that may require professional help.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between impatient and anxious?
Anxious is typically associated with a more formal tone, while impatient is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
