What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
intoxication
Example
The symptoms of intoxication include slurred speech and impaired coordination. [intoxication: noun]
Example
He was arrested for driving under the influence of intoxicating substances. [intoxicating: adjective]
drunkenness
Example
He was charged with public drunkenness after causing a disturbance at the bar. [drunkenness: noun]
Example
She stumbled around the party, displaying signs of drunkenness. [drunkenness: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Drunkenness is more commonly used than intoxication in everyday language, especially in informal contexts. Intoxication is more commonly used in legal or medical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between intoxication and drunkenness?
Intoxication is a more formal term that is commonly used in legal or medical contexts, while drunkenness is more informal and colloquial.
