What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
obesity
Example
Obesity is a major risk factor for heart disease and diabetes. [obesity: noun]
Example
The doctor advised the patient to lose weight due to their obesity. [obesity: adjective]
overweight
Example
She has been struggling with being overweight for years. [overweight: adjective]
Example
The report showed that 40% of the population is overweight. [overweight: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Overweight is a more common term than obesity in everyday language, as it is a more neutral and less stigmatizing term. However, in medical contexts, obesity is the preferred term.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between obesity and overweight?
Obesity is a more formal term than overweight, as it is a medical condition that requires diagnosis and treatment. Overweight is a more casual term that can be used in everyday conversation.
