What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pain
Example
The pain in my back is getting worse. [pain: noun]
Example
She was in so much pain after the accident. [pain: noun]
Example
It's a pain to have to deal with all this paperwork. [pain: noun]
ache
Example
My head is aching from staring at the computer screen all day. [ache: verb]
Example
I have an ache in my shoulder from playing tennis. [ache: noun]
Example
She felt an ache in her heart when she heard the news. [ache: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pain is more commonly used than ache in everyday language. Pain is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while ache is more specific and tends to be used in certain situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pain and ache?
Both pain and ache can be used in formal and informal contexts, but pain may be seen as more serious or urgent, while ache may be viewed as a milder or more common discomfort.
