What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
backstab
Example
I can't believe she backstabbed her best friend by spreading rumors about her. [backstabbed: past tense verb]
Example
He is known for his tendency to backstab his colleagues in order to get ahead. [backstab: verb]
cheat
Example
She cheated on the exam by looking at her neighbor's paper. [cheated: past tense verb]
Example
He was caught cheating during the game by using performance-enhancing drugs. [cheating: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cheat is more commonly used than backstab in everyday language. Cheat is a versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts, while backstab is less common and more specific to personal betrayal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between backstab and cheat?
While backstab is typically associated with a more informal tone, cheat can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it more versatile in terms of formality.
