What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
arrogant
Example
He is so arrogant that he never listens to anyone else's opinions. [arrogant: adjective]
Example
Her arrogant behavior made everyone feel inferior. [arrogant: noun]
overbearing
Example
My boss can be quite overbearing, always telling us what to do. [overbearing: adjective]
Example
Her overbearing nature made it difficult for others to express their ideas. [overbearing: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Arrogant is more commonly used than overbearing in everyday language. It is a term that people are more familiar with and use more frequently to describe someone who has an exaggerated sense of their own importance or abilities.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between arrogant and overbearing?
Both arrogant and overbearing are generally considered informal and negative terms. However, arrogant is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while overbearing is less common and tends to be used in more casual situations.