What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
worry
Example
I worry about my grades because I want to get into a good college. [worry: verb]
Example
Her constant worrying is affecting her health. [worrying: gerund or present participle]
distress
Example
The news of her father's death 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?
Worry is more commonly used than distress in everyday language. Worry is a common emotion experienced by many people, while distress is a more severe emotion that is less frequently used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between worry and distress?
Both worry and distress can be used in formal and informal contexts, but distress is generally considered more formal and serious than worry.
