What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
thriller
Example
I love reading thrillers because they keep me on the edge of my seat. [thrillers: noun]
Example
The rollercoaster ride was a thrilling experience that left me breathless. [thrilling: adjective]
action
Example
The action movie was full of explosions and car chases. [action: noun]
Example
I like to participate in outdoor activities that involve a lot of action, like hiking or rock climbing. [action: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Action is more commonly used than thriller in everyday language, especially in the context of movies and television shows. Thriller is more specific to a particular genre of literature, film, or television.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between thriller and action?
Both thriller and action can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but thriller may be considered more formal due to its association with literature and film genres.