What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
abusive
Example
The coach was fired for his abusive behavior towards the players. [abusive: adjective]
Example
She left her husband because he was emotionally abusive towards her. [abusive: adjective]
Example
The child protective services removed the children from the home due to the abusive environment. [abusive: adjective]
offensive
Example
His jokes were offensive to many people in the audience. [offensive: adjective]
Example
She found his comments offensive and asked him to stop. [offensive: adjective]
Example
The company apologized for their offensive advertisement. [offensive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Offensive is more commonly used than abusive in everyday language. Offensive can be used in a variety of contexts, from casual conversations to formal settings, while abusive is typically reserved for more serious situations involving harmful behavior.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between abusive and offensive?
While offensive can be used in both formal and informal contexts, abusive is generally associated with a more serious and formal tone due to its severity and legal implications.
