What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pressure
Example
The pressure of the water caused the pipe to burst. [pressure: noun]
Example
I feel pressure to finish this project before the deadline. [pressure: noun]
Example
She's under a lot of pressure to perform well in her new job. [pressure: noun]
stress
Example
I'm feeling stressed about the upcoming exam. [stressed: adjective]
Example
Her job is very stressful and demanding. [stressful: adjective]
Example
He's been experiencing a lot of stress lately due to family issues. [stress: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stress is more commonly used than pressure in everyday language, as it is a broader term that covers a wider range of situations and experiences. However, pressure is still a common word used in various contexts, such as work, sports, and science.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pressure and stress?
Both pressure and stress can be used in formal and informal contexts, but pressure may be more commonly used in technical or scientific settings, while stress is more versatile and can be used in various contexts and levels of formality.
