Both “drunk” and “intoxicated” describe a state caused by consuming alcohol or other substances that impair your body and mind.
Level of intoxication
“Drunk” often implies a more severe state of intoxication.
Someone who is drunk might have slurred speech, stumble while walking, or have difficulty thinking clearly.
Informal vs. formal
“Drunk” is a more informal term, commonly used in everyday conversation.
“Intoxicated” has a more formal tone and might be used in legal contexts or medical reports.
Cause of intoxication
While both terms are most commonly used for alcohol, “intoxicated” can be used more broadly for any substance that causes impairment.
Drunk
Imagine someone at a party who has clearly had a lot to drink, is unsteady on their feet, and might be loud or belligerent. This is typically who you’d call “drunk.”
- “The driver was so drunk he could barely see straight.” (This suggests a more severe state)
Intoxicated
This is a broader term that simply means someone’s mental or physical abilities are impaired by a substance. It can apply to someone who is mildly tipsy or someone who is severely incapacitated.
- “I felt a little intoxicated after just one glass of wine.” (This suggests a mild impairment)