Definitions
- Referring to the process of becoming rigid or inflexible. - Describing a physical response to fear, shock, or cold temperatures. - Talking about a change in attitude or behavior towards becoming more strict or formal.
- Referring to the process of becoming solid or firm. - Describing a physical response to exercise or manual labor. - Talking about a change in attitude or behavior towards becoming more resolute or unyielding.
List of Similarities
- 1Both involve a change in physical state.
- 2Both can be used to describe a change in attitude or behavior.
- 3Both can be used figuratively or literally.
- 4Both can be used in the context of materials or substances.
What is the difference?
- 1Process: Stiffen involves becoming rigid or inflexible, while harden involves becoming solid or firm.
- 2Physical Response: Stiffen is often a response to fear, shock, or cold temperatures, while harden is often a response to exercise or manual labor.
- 3Attitude/Behavior: Stiffen implies becoming more strict or formal, while harden implies becoming more resolute or unyielding.
- 4Materials/Substances: Stiffen is often used in the context of dough, fabric, or muscles, while harden is often used in the context of cement, metal, or wood.
- 5Connotation: Stiffen can have a negative connotation, implying inflexibility or stubbornness, while harden can have a positive connotation, implying strength or resilience.
Remember this!
Stiffen and harden are both verbs that describe a change in physical state, attitude, or behavior. However, the difference between stiffen and harden lies in their process, physical response, and connotation. Stiffen involves becoming rigid or inflexible, often in response to fear, shock, or cold temperatures, while harden involves becoming solid or firm, often in response to exercise or manual labor. Additionally, stiffen can imply becoming more strict or formal, while harden can imply becoming more resolute or unyielding.
