Dumb vs Stupid

Type your word here
Try:

What’s the difference between them?

Dumb

Meaning:

Stupid, lacking intelligence

Examples:

1. I felt so dumb for forgetting my keys.

2. Don't be so dumb and leave your wallet at home.

3. She gave me a dumb look when I asked the question.

Stupid

Meaning:

having or showing a great lack of intelligence or common sense.

Examples:

1. I can't believe I was so stupid to forget my keys!

2. Don't be stupid and let him drive your car.

3. She was so embarrassed after making a stupid comment in class.

Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference

Synonyms

Antonyms

Dumb

1. Dim-witted

2. Obtuse

3.Slow-witted

4.Idiotic

5. Dim-minded

1. Intelligent

2. Clever

3. Bright

4. Educated

5. Articulate

Stupid

1. Ignorant

2. Dim-witted

3. Dense

4. Dim

5. Unintelligent

1. Intelligent

2. Astute

3. Brilliant

4. Ingenious

5. Quick-witted

Tricks for mastery

Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Dumb", "Stupid".

1. Dumb and stupid both refer to a person who lacks intelligence.

2. Remember that dumb is usually more significant term.

Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words

Frequently asked questions

In what situations should the first word be used?

The word 'dumb' is used to describe someone who is unable to speak, or appears to be so. It can also be used to describe an action or thing that is not very intelligent.

When is the appropriate context for using the second word?

The word 'stupid' is used to describe a person who is lacking in intelligence or common sense. It can also be used to describe something that is silly or foolish.

Do the two words share the same pronunciation?

No, the two words do not share the same pronunciation. The word 'dumb' is pronounced '/dəm/', while the word 'stupid' is pronounced '/ˈst(y)o͞opəd/'.

What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?

One of the most common mistakes people make when using these words is using 'dumb' instead of 'stupid' or vice versAdditionally, people often use 'dumb' and 'stupid' to describe people, which is generally considered inappropriate and offensive.

Fill in the gaps to check yourself

1. He acted so __ that I thought he was trying to make a fool of himself.

2. She said something __ and I couldnt believe she meant it.

3. I cant believe I was so __ to not realize what was happening.

4. They were laughing at my __ mistake.

5. I felt so __ for not understanding the instructions.

6. He was too __ to understand the consequences of his actions.

1. He acted so stupid that I thought he was trying to make a fool of himself.

Explanation: The word stupid implies foolishness or silliness and the action he took could be seen as an attempt to draw attention and make a fool of himself.

2. She said something dumb and I couldnt believe she meant it.

Explanation: The word dumb implies that the statement was foolish or unintelligent.

3. I cant believe I was so stupid to not realize what was happening.

Explanation: The word stupid implies a lack of understanding or intelligence, which could explain why the individual did not realize what was happening.

4. They were laughing at my dumb mistake.

Explanation: The word dumb implies that the mistake was foolish or unintelligent.

5. I felt so stupid for not understanding the instructions.

Explanation: The word stupid implies a lack of understanding or intelligence, which could explain why the individual did not understand the instructions.

6. He was too dumb to understand the consequences of his actions.

Explanation: The word dumb implies that the individual lacked the intelligence to understand the repercussions of his actions.

Get a gift by subscribing to our newsletter!

Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.

List of Commonly Confused Words

Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.