What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
overload
Example
I have an overload of emails to respond to. [overload: noun]
Example
The circuit was overloaded and caused a power outage. [overloaded: past participle]
overwhelm
Example
I was overwhelmed with gratitude for their kindness. [overwhelmed: past participle]
Example
The workload was overwhelming and caused me to feel stressed. [overwhelming: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Overwhelm is more commonly used than overload in everyday language, especially in personal or emotional contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between overload and overwhelm?
Overload is more commonly used in technical or professional contexts, making it more formal than overwhelm, which is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
