What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
woe
Example
She was filled with woe after the loss of her beloved pet. [woe: noun]
Example
The country was in a state of woe after the devastating earthquake. [woe: noun]
distress
Example
The news of the accident caused her great distress. [distress: noun]
Example
He was distressed by the thought of losing his job. [distressed: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Distress is more commonly used in everyday language than woe. Distress is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while woe is less common and has a more poetic connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between woe and distress?
Both woe and distress can be used in formal or informal contexts, but woe may be perceived as more formal due to its poetic connotation.
