What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
streak
Example
The athlete had a streak of wins in the competition. [streak: noun]
Example
She streaked her hair with purple highlights. [streaked: verb]
Example
The car streaked down the highway at top speed. [streaked: verb]
stroke
Example
He painted the wall with a stroke of his brush. [stroke: noun]
Example
The patient suffered a stroke and was rushed to the hospital. [stroke: noun]
Example
She stroked the cat's fur gently. [stroked: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stroke is more commonly used than streak in everyday language due to its medical meaning. Streak is less common and is usually used in specific contexts such as sports or art.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between streak and stroke?
Both streak and stroke can be used in formal and informal contexts, but stroke may be more formal due to its medical meaning.