What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
stinger
Example
The bee left its stinger in my arm after it stung me. [stinger: noun]
Example
I felt a stinger in my foot after stepping on a thorn. [stinger: noun]
Example
Let's order some stingers at the bar. [stingers: plural noun]
spike
Example
Be careful not to step on that spike on the ground. [spike: noun]
Example
The stock market experienced a spike in prices after the announcement. [spike: noun]
Example
He wore his spikes to the soccer game. [spikes: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spike is more commonly used than stinger in everyday language. Spike is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while stinger is less common and refers to a specific type of sharp object.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between stinger and spike?
Both stinger and spike are typically associated with an informal tone. However, spike can be used in more formal contexts, such as scientific or technical writing, due to its versatility and multiple meanings.
