What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
subconscious
Example
She had a subconscious fear of heights that made her uneasy on tall buildings. [subconscious: adjective]
Example
He couldn't explain why he felt uneasy around his new boss, but he suspected it was due to a subconscious memory from childhood. [subconscious: noun]
Example
She had developed a subconscious habit of biting her nails when she was nervous. [subconscious: adjective]
unconscious
Example
The patient was unconscious after the accident and remained in a coma for several days. [unconscious: adjective]
Example
He was knocked unconscious by the blow to his head and woke up in the hospital. [unconscious: adjective]
Example
The brain performs many unconscious processes, such as regulating breathing and heart rate. [unconscious: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unconscious is more commonly used than subconscious in everyday language, especially in medical and emergency contexts. Subconscious is more specialized and is often used in psychology and self-help contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between subconscious and unconscious?
Both subconscious and unconscious can be used in formal and informal contexts, but unconscious is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations.
