What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pounced
Example
The cat pounced on the mouse and caught it in its claws. [pounced: past tense]
Example
He pounced on the opportunity to invest in the new startup. [pounced: verb]
assail
Example
The army assailed the enemy stronghold with all their might. [assailed: past tense]
Example
The politician was assailed by the media for his controversial remarks. [assailed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Assail is less common than pounced in everyday language. Pounced is more versatile and can be used in various contexts, while assail is more specific and tends to be used in more formal or literary contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pounced and assail?
Assail is generally considered more formal and literary than pounced. While pounced can be used in both formal and informal contexts, assail is more commonly used in formal writing or speech.
