What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
relapse
Example
After months of sobriety, he suffered a relapse and started drinking again. [relapse: noun]
Example
She was doing well in therapy until she relapsed and started experiencing panic attacks again. [relapsed: past tense verb]
regression
Example
The child showed signs of regression in their language development after a traumatic event. [regression: noun]
Example
Despite months of training, the athlete experienced regression in their performance. [regressed: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Relapse is more commonly used than regression in the context of addiction or illness. However, regression is more versatile and can be used in various fields such as psychology, education, and sports.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between relapse and regression?
Both relapse and regression are formal words that are commonly used in professional or academic contexts.
