Stuck vs. Struck: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Stuck is being unable to move from a position or place, while struck is the past tense of 'strike', meaning to hit or affect sudde
Key Differences
'Stuck' often describes a situation where something or someone cannot move or be moved, implying a state of being trapped or immobilized. In contrast, 'struck' is used to describe an action where something has been hit or impacted, usually with force. It conveys a sense of sudden or forceful action.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
Stuck can be used both literally, as in physically being unable to move, and figuratively, as in being in a difficult situation. Struck, while predominantly used in a literal sense to mean being hit, can also be used metaphorically, like being struck by an idea.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
'Stuck' is the past and past participle form of the verb 'stick', but it is also used as an adjective. 'Struck' is solely the past tense and past participle of the verb 'strike'. This difference marks their distinct grammatical roles in sentences.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
Stuck often carries a sense of frustration or helplessness, being in a situation with seemingly no easy way out. Struck, on the other hand, can convey a range of emotions from surprise and realization to physical impact, depending on the context.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
The meaning of 'stuck' is relatively straightforward, focusing on immobility or being in a bind. 'Struck', however, can have various meanings including to hit, to come into contact with, or to be impressed by something, showcasing its versatile usage.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Primary Meaning
Being immobilized or in a fixed position.
The act of hitting or impacting something.
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Nov 30, 2023
Grammatical Role
Used as past tense, past participle, and adjective.
Primarily past tense and past participle of 'strike'.
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Nov 30, 2023
Typical Context
Physical or situational immobility.
Physical action or sudden realization.
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Nov 30, 2023
Emotional Tone
Often suggests frustration or helplessness.
Can range from surprise to aggression.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
Variability
Generally consistent in meaning.
Wide range of meanings depending on context.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
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Stuck and Struck Definitions
Stuck
Trapped in a particular position or place.
She was stuck at the airport due to a delayed flight.
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Nov 30, 2023
Stuck
Unable to progress in a situation or task.
I'm stuck on this difficult puzzle.
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Nov 30, 2023
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Struck
Affected or touched by an emotion or thought.
He was struck with awe at the sight.
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Nov 30, 2023
Stuck
In a difficult or undesirable situation.
He felt stuck in his current job.
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Nov 30, 2023
Struck
Coin a medal or medallion by stamping.
The commemorative coins were struck for the event.
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Nov 30, 2023
Struck
Occurred to (an idea or thought).
An interesting idea struck her during the meeting.
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Nov 30, 2023
Stuck
Unable to move.
Can you shift this gate? I think it’s stuck.
If you’ve had to battle a stuck zipper, you know how frustrating it can be.
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Oct 19, 2023
Stuck
Unable to progress with a task.
I’m totally stuck on this question in the test.
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Oct 19, 2023
Stuck
No longer functioning, frozen up, frozen.
There are several ways to close a stuck program.
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Oct 19, 2023
Struck
(used in combination) affected by something overwhelming;
Conscience-smitten
Awe-struck
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Oct 19, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Can 'stuck' be used to describe emotions?
Yes, it can describe feeling trapped in an emotional state.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
What does 'stuck' imply in physical terms?
It means being unable to move from a particular place or position.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
Does 'struck' imply a forceful action?
Generally, yes, especially in its literal sense.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
Can 'stuck' describe a situation?
Yes, it can describe being in a difficult or stagnant situation.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
What's the adjective form of 'stuck'?
'Stuck' itself can function as an adjective.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
How is 'struck' used in a non-physical sense?
It's used to describe being impacted by a sudden idea or feeling.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 30, 2023
Is 'stuck' always negative?
Often, but it can be neutral, depending on context.
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Nov 30, 2023
What is a common use of 'struck' in music?
It refers to striking a chord or note.
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Nov 30, 2023
Is 'struck' used in legal terminology?
Yes, like being struck from a record or list.
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Nov 30, 2023
What is the primary meaning of 'struck'?
'Struck' primarily means to hit something or be hit.
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Nov 30, 2023
Can 'stuck' describe a relationship status?
Informally, yes, as in feeling stuck in a relationship.
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Nov 30, 2023
Does 'struck' have a past participle form?
Yes, 'struck' is both the past tense and past participle of 'strike'.
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Nov 30, 2023
Can 'stuck' refer to being in a dilemma?
Yes, it can imply being in a challenging situation without easy solutions.
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Nov 30, 2023
What's the difference in tone between 'stuck' and 'struck'?
'Stuck' often suggests frustration, while 'struck' can range from surprise to aggression.
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Nov 30, 2023
What does 'struck' mean in the context of a deal?
It means to reach or make a deal.
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Nov 30, 2023
Can 'stuck' be used in a positive sense?
Rarely, but it can be used humorously or affectionately.
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Nov 30, 2023
Can 'stuck' imply a lack of ideas?
Yes, as in being stuck for ideas or solutions.
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Nov 30, 2023
How is 'stuck' used in technology?
Refers to a device or system that is not functioning or is frozen.
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Nov 30, 2023
How is 'struck' used in historical contexts?
Often refers to striking a treaty or agreement.
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Nov 30, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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