What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
stiffer
Example
The new shoes are stiffer than my old ones, but they provide better support. [stiffer: comparative adjective]
Example
After sitting for hours, my back feels stiffer than usual. [stiffer: comparative adjective]
Example
The competition this year is stiffer than last year's. [stiffer: comparative adjective]
harder
Example
The rock is harder than the soil, so it takes more effort to dig through. [harder: comparative adjective]
Example
I need to study harder for the exam if I want to get a good grade. [harder: adverb]
Example
This year has been harder than the previous one due to the pandemic. [harder: comparative adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Harder is more commonly used than stiffer in everyday language. Harder is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while stiffer is less common and has more specific usages.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between stiffer and harder?
Both stiffer and harder are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
