What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ulcer
Example
The doctor diagnosed him with a stomach ulcer. [ulcer: noun]
Example
She had an ulcer on her leg that wouldn't heal. [ulcer: noun]
sore
Example
My throat is sore from all the coughing. [sore: adjective]
Example
He has a sore on his foot that won't go away. [sore: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sore is more commonly used than ulcer in everyday language. Sore is a versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts, while ulcer is less common and often associated with more specific medical conditions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ulcer and sore?
Both ulcer and sore can be used in formal and informal contexts, but ulcer may be more commonly used in medical or scientific settings due to its association with specific medical conditions.