What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
relieve
Example
The medicine helped relieve her headache. [relieve: verb]
Example
He felt relieved when his friend offered to help him move. [relieved: adjective]
alleviate
Example
The new medication helped alleviate her chronic pain. [alleviate: verb]
Example
The charity's efforts helped alleviate the suffering of the homeless. [alleviate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Relieve is more common in everyday language than alleviate. It is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, including taking over responsibilities or duties. Alleviate is less common but has a stronger connotation of reducing or eliminating pain or distress.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between relieve and alleviate?
Both relieve and alleviate can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, alleviate may be perceived as more formal due to its stronger connotation of reducing or eliminating a problem or situation.
