What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
syncope
Example
The patient experienced syncope after standing up too quickly. [syncope: noun]
Example
She felt dizzy and lightheaded before experiencing syncope. [syncope: noun]
collapse
Example
The athlete collapsed from exhaustion after running the marathon. [collapsed: verb]
Example
The building collapsed due to poor construction. [collapsed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Collapse is more commonly used than syncope in everyday language. Collapse is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while syncope is less common and refers specifically to a medical condition.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between syncope and collapse?
Both syncope and collapse are formal terms used in medical contexts. However, collapse may be used in more informal contexts to describe a sudden and complete loss of strength or energy.
