What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
testing
Example
The students are taking a math test today. [test: noun]
Example
The company is testing the new software for bugs. [testing: gerund or present participle]
assessment
Example
The teacher is conducting an assessment of the students' reading levels. [assessment: noun]
Example
The government is conducting an assessment of the environmental impact of the new highway. [assessment: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Testing is more commonly used than assessment in everyday language, especially in educational contexts. However, assessment is more commonly used in professional settings, such as healthcare, business, or social services.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between testing and assessment?
Assessment is generally considered more formal than testing, as it is often used in professional or academic contexts that require a higher level of precision and accuracy.