What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
severity
Example
The severity of the storm caused widespread damage to the city. [severity: noun]
Example
The doctor prescribed a strong painkiller to alleviate the severity of the patient's symptoms. [severity: noun]
rigor
Example
The research project required a high level of rigor in data collection and analysis. [rigor: noun]
Example
The training program was designed to increase the rigor of the athletes' workouts. [rigor: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Severity is more commonly used than rigor in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts. However, rigor is more common in academic or professional settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between severity and rigor?
Both severity and rigor are formal words, but rigor is more commonly used in academic or scientific contexts, where precision and accuracy are highly valued.
