What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
spasm
Example
She experienced a spasm in her back while lifting the heavy box. [spasm: noun]
Example
His leg spasmed after running for hours without water. [spasmed: verb]
twitch
Example
He felt a twitch in his eye after staring at the computer screen for too long. [twitch: noun]
Example
The cat's tail twitched as it watched the bird outside the window. [twitched: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Twitch is more commonly used than spasm in everyday language. Twitch is often used to describe minor and harmless muscle movements, while spasm is associated with more serious medical conditions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between spasm and twitch?
Both spasm and twitch can be used in formal and informal contexts, but spasm is more likely to be used in medical or technical contexts due to its association with more serious medical conditions.
