What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
punishing
Example
The judge gave him a punishing sentence for his crimes. [punishing: adjective]
Example
The marathon was a punishing race, but she managed to finish it. [punishing: adjective]
Example
Working on this project has been punishing, both mentally and emotionally. [punishing: gerund or present participle]
exhausting
Example
I find cleaning the house to be an exhausting chore. [exhausting: adjective]
Example
Studying for exams can be mentally exhausting. [exhausting: gerund or present participle]
Example
Dealing with difficult customers all day can be emotionally exhausting. [exhausting: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Exhausting is more commonly used than punishing in everyday language. Exhausting is a versatile word that can be used in a wide range of contexts, while punishing is less common and often associated with specific situations such as punishment or extreme physical exertion.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between punishing and exhausting?
Both punishing and exhausting can be used in formal and informal contexts, but punishing may be more formal due to its association with legal or disciplinary language.
