What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
wheal
Example
The mosquito bite left a small wheal on my arm. [wheal: noun]
Example
After scratching the rash, several wheals appeared on her skin. [wheals: noun]
weal
Example
The boxer had a weal on his cheek from the punch. [weal: noun]
Example
The wound is starting to show signs of weal. [weal: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Weal is more commonly used than wheal in everyday language. Weal has a wider range of meanings and can be used in various contexts, while wheal is more specific to skin reactions caused by allergies or insect bites.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between wheal and weal?
Both wheal and weal are formal words that are more likely to be used in medical or technical contexts rather than everyday conversation.