What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
snuffy
Example
I can't smell anything because I'm so snuffy. [snuffy: adjective]
Example
The dusty attic made me feel snuffy and uncomfortable. [snuffy: adjective]
stuffy
Example
The conference room was so stuffy that I had trouble concentrating. [stuffy: adjective]
Example
My grandparents are very stuffy and don't like modern music or fashion. [stuffy: adjective]
Example
I feel so stuffy and congested from this cold. [stuffy: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stuffy is more commonly used than snuffy in everyday language. Stuffy is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while snuffy is less common and refers specifically to nasal congestion.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between snuffy and stuffy?
Stuffy is more formal than snuffy and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, when used to describe a person's behavior or attitudes, stuffy can have a negative connotation and may be considered impolite in some situations.
