What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
stricken
Example
The town was stricken by a devastating earthquake. [stricken: adjective]
Example
She was stricken with grief after the loss of her father. [stricken: verb]
afflicted
Example
He was afflicted with a rare disease that left him bedridden. [afflicted: verb]
Example
The country was afflicted by a severe drought that caused widespread famine. [afflicted: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Afflicted is more commonly used than stricken in everyday language. Afflicted is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while stricken is less common and refers to specific situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between stricken and afflicted?
Both stricken and afflicted can be used in formal and informal contexts, but stricken may be more commonly used in news or media reporting of disasters or tragedies.
