What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
psychophysical
Example
Yoga is a practice that emphasizes the psychophysical connection between the mind and body. [psychophysical: adjective]
Example
The study of pain perception involves examining the psychophysical aspects of pain. [psychophysical: noun]
psychosomatic
Example
Her headaches were diagnosed as psychosomatic, caused by stress and anxiety. [psychosomatic: adjective]
Example
The doctor explained that some stomach ulcers can be psychosomatic in nature. [psychosomatic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Psychosomatic is more commonly used than psychophysical in everyday language, especially in medical contexts. Psychophysical is a less common term that is primarily used in scientific or academic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between psychophysical and psychosomatic?
Both psychophysical and psychosomatic are formal terms that are typically used in medical or scientific contexts.
