What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
rigid
Example
The metal rod was so rigid that it could not be bent. [rigid: adjective]
Example
The company has a rigid policy against tardiness. [rigid: adjective]
Example
He was a rigid thinker who refused to consider alternative viewpoints. [rigid: adjective]
stiff
Example
The new shoes were so stiff that they hurt my feet. [stiff: adjective]
Example
He was a stiff and formal man who never let his guard down. [stiff: adjective]
Example
The air in the room was stiff with tension as they waited for the results. [stiff: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stiff is more commonly used than rigid in everyday language. Stiff can be used in a wider range of contexts, including physical discomfort and social situations, while rigid is more specific and often used to describe strict rules or uncompromising people.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between rigid and stiff?
Stiff is often associated with formality and social situations, making it more formal than rigid. However, both words can be used in formal and informal contexts depending on the context and tone of the sentence.
