What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
spook
Example
The loud noise spooked the cat, causing it to run away. [spooked: past tense]
Example
I don't like going into that old house, it always spooks me out. [spooks: verb]
scare
Example
The horror movie scared me so much that I couldn't sleep. [scared: past tense]
Example
The thought of failing the exam scares me. [scares: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Scare is more commonly used than spook in everyday language. Scare is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while spook is less common and informal, often used in casual or humorous situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between spook and scare?
While scare can be used in both formal and informal contexts, spook is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, making it less appropriate for formal situations.