Is relax the same as rest?

Not exactly. "Rest" means stop activity, often to recover. "Relax" means feel less tense or less stressed.

Can I say relax when talking to someone?

Yes, but it can sound direct. "Relax" is common, but "calm down" may sound stronger.

Is relax a formal word?

It is neutral. You can use it in everyday speech, business writing, and academic English.

← Dictionary

relax

/rɪˈlæks/

IELTSAcademic

verb

To become less tense, worried, or busy. It can also mean to make something less tight or stiff.

I like to relax after work.
Take a deep breath and relax.
Relax your shoulders while you sit.

Adinary Nuance

Relax is gentler than words like "rest" or "calm down." Use "rest" when you need sleep or a break, and "calm down" when someone is upset. "Relax" is broader: it can mean feeling easier, or loosening your body or grip.

In other languages

Vietnamese: thư giãn
Spanish: relajarse
Chinese: 放松
Japanese: リラックスする
Korean: 긴장을 풀다

Etymology

Relax came into English from Latin relaxare, meaning "to loosen" or "to make less tight." It has been used in English since the 1500s.

Common phrases

relax and unwindrelax your mindrelax your bodyrelax for a while

Synonyms

unwind rest ease

Related words

calm soothe break

Frequently asked questions

Is relax the same as rest?: Not exactly. "Rest" means stop activity, often to recover. "Relax" means feel less tense or less stressed.
Can I say relax when talking to someone?: Yes, but it can sound direct. "Relax" is common, but "calm down" may sound stronger.
Is relax a formal word?: It is neutral. You can use it in everyday speech, business writing, and academic English.