What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
badgering
Example
Stop badgering me with all these questions! [badgering: present participle]
Example
She was badgered by her siblings to let them use her phone. [badgered: past tense]
bothering
Example
I'm sorry for bothering you, but could you please turn down the music? [bothering: present participle]
Example
Don't bother him while he's working. [bother: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bothering is more commonly used than badgering in everyday language. Bothering is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while badgering is less common and may be considered more formal or specific.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between badgering and bothering?
While bothering is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, badgering is less common and may be considered more formal or specific.
