What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
squalm
Example
After eating that sushi, I had a squalm in my stomach. [squalm: noun]
Example
She felt a squalm of guilt after lying to her friend. [squalm: noun]
qualm
Example
I have no qualms about telling the truth. [qualms: plural noun]
Example
He had a qualm about accepting the job offer. [qualm: singular noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Qualm is more commonly used than squalm in everyday language. Qualm is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while squalm is less common and may be considered outdated or archaic in some contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between squalm and qualm?
Both squalm and qualm are considered formal words and may not be commonly used in casual conversation. However, qualm is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.