What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
stagnant
Example
The pond had become stagnant due to the lack of rain. [stagnant: adjective]
Example
The company's profits have remained stagnant for the past year. [stagnant: adjective]
Example
The air in the room felt stagnant and stuffy. [stagnant: adjective]
still
Example
The lake was still as a mirror, reflecting the mountains in the distance. [still: adjective]
Example
The stillness of the night was interrupted only by the sound of crickets. [stillness: noun]
Example
She sat still, listening intently to the speaker. [still: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Still is more commonly used than stagnant in everyday language. Still is versatile and can be used in a wide range of contexts, while stagnant is less common and more specific in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between stagnant and still?
Both stagnant and still are formal words that can be used in academic or professional contexts. However, stagnant may be more commonly used in technical or scientific writing, while still can be used in a wider range of formal contexts.