What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
overwhelm
Example
I was overwhelmed with joy when I saw my family after so long. [overwhelmed: adjective]
Example
The amount of work was overwhelming, and I didn't know where to start. [overwhelming: gerund or present participle]
swamp
Example
I'm swamped with work this week, and I don't know how I'll get it all done. [swamped: adjective]
Example
The area was swamped after the heavy rains caused flooding. [swamped: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Overwhelm is more commonly used in personal or emotional contexts, while swamp is more commonly used in professional or work-related contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between overwhelm and swamp?
Both overwhelm and swamp can be used in formal and informal contexts, but swamp is more commonly used in professional or work-related settings.