What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
acost
Example
I was happy to acost my old friend when I saw her at the party. [acost: verb]
Example
The hostess was quick to acost us and make us feel welcome. [acosting: gerund or present participle]
accost
Example
The stranger accosted me on the street and demanded my wallet. [accost: verb]
Example
I was accosted by a group of rowdy teenagers on my way home from work. [accosting: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Accost is more commonly used than acost in everyday language. Accost is a more versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while acost is less common and may not be familiar to some English speakers.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between acost and accost?
Accost is typically associated with a serious and formal tone, while acost is more casual and informal in nature.