Nerve-Wracking vs Nerve-Racking
What’s the difference between them?
Nerve-Wracking
Meaning:
Causing intense anxiety or distress.
Examples:
1. I always find job interviews to be a nerve-wracking experience.
2. His presentation was so nerve-wracking that I could hardly concentrate.
3. Taking an exam can be a nerve-wracking experience for some students.
Nerve-Racking
Meaning:
Meaning is the same.
Examples:
1. I found my first job interview to be incredibly nerve-racking.
2. Sitting through the silent exam room was nerve-racking.
3. It was nerve-racking waiting for the results of the scan.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Nerve-Wracking
1. Anxiety-inducing
2. Stressful
3. Tremendous pressure
4. Nail-biting
5. Heart-pounding
1. Soothing
2. Calming
3. Relaxing
4. Unworrisome
5. Stress-free
Nerve-Racking
1. Anxiety-inducing
2. Stressful
3. Tremendous pressure
4. Nail-biting
5. Heart-pounding
1. Soothing
2. Calming
3. Relaxing
4. Unworrisome
5. Stress-free
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Nerve-Wracking", "Nerve-Racking".
1. Both words are correct, so you can easily use them without doubts.
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the word 'nerve-wracking' be used?
The word 'nerve-wracking' is used to describe an experience that is very stressful or tense. It is usually used to describe an intense situation that causes extreme anxiety or fear. For example, a job interview or a test may be described as nerve-wracking.
When is the appropriate context for using the word 'nerve-racking'?
The word 'nerve-racking' is used in similar contexts as 'nerve-wracking', usually to describe an intense and anxiety-inducing experience.
Do the two words 'nerve-wracking' and 'nerve-racking' share the same pronunciation?
Yes, both words are pronounced the same way. The only difference between them is the spelling.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
Both words share the same meaning and might be used interchangeably, so there are no common mistakes between their usage.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. Working in a high-pressure environment can be quite __________.
2. Preparing for an important job interview can be ___________.
3. Taking a driving test can be a ___________ experience.
4. Going to the dentist is often a ___________ occasion.
5. Taking an exam can be a ___________ experience.
6. Waiting for an important phone call can be ___________.
1. Working in a high-pressure environment can be quite nerve-racking
Explanation: This phrase is used to describe an anxious or stressful situation. It emphasizes the feeling of anxiety or stress that comes with being in a high-pressure environment.
2. Preparing for an important job interview can be nerve-racking
Explanation: This phrase is used to describe an anxious or stressful situation. It emphasizes the feeling of anxiety or stress that comes with preparing for an important job interview.
3. Taking a driving test can be a nerve-wracking experience
Explanation: This phrase is used to describe an anxious or stressful experience. It emphasizes the feeling of anxiety or stress that comes with taking a driving test.
4. Going to the dentist is often a nerve-racking occasion
Explanation: This phrase is used to describe an anxious or stressful occasion. It emphasizes the feeling of anxiety or stress that comes with going to the dentist.
5. Taking an exam can be a nerve-racking experience
Explanation: This phrase is used to describe an anxious or stressful experience. It emphasizes the feeling of anxiety or stress that comes with taking an exam.
6. Waiting for an important phone call can be nerve-racking
Explanation: This phrase is used to describe an anxious or stressful situation. It emphasizes the feeling of anxiety or stress that comes with waiting for an important phone call.
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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.