What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
scourge
Example
The scourge of malaria continues to affect millions of people worldwide. [scourge: noun]
Example
Corruption is a scourge that undermines the stability of governments and societies. [scourge: noun]
Example
The prisoners were subjected to the scourge of hard labor in the mines. [scourge: noun]
menace
Example
The hurricane was a menacing force that threatened the safety of the coastal communities. [menacing: adjective]
Example
The stray dogs in the neighborhood are a menace to the residents. [menace: noun]
Example
The gang members menaced the shopkeeper into paying protection money. [menaced: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Menace is more commonly used than scourge in everyday language. Menace is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while scourge is less common and typically used in more serious or formal situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between scourge and menace?
While menace is typically associated with an informal tone, scourge is more formal and serious in nature, often used in medical or legal contexts.
