What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
spurt
Example
The runner had a spurt of energy and sprinted to the finish line. [spurt: noun]
Example
The water spurted out of the bottle when I opened it. [spurted: past tense verb]
surge
Example
The crowd surged forward when the doors opened. [surged: past tense verb]
Example
There was a surge in demand for the product after the advertisement aired. [surge: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Surge is more commonly used than spurt in everyday language. Surge is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while spurt is less common and refers to more specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between spurt and surge?
Both spurt and surge are relatively informal words, but surge may be slightly more formal due to its wider range of applications and more neutral connotation.
