What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
irrationally
Example
She acted irrationally when she quit her job without having another one lined up. [irrationally: adverb]
Example
His fear of flying was irrational, as statistics show it's a safe mode of transportation. [irrational: adjective]
absurdly
Example
The idea that aliens built the pyramids is absurdly far-fetched. [absurdly: adverb]
Example
He made an absurdly exaggerated claim that he could run a marathon in under an hour. [absurdly: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Irrationally is more commonly used in academic or professional settings, while absurdly is more informal and used in everyday language.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between irrationally and absurdly?
Irrationally is more formal than absurdly, which is more casual and often used in humorous or sarcastic contexts.