What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
beating
Example
The bully was caught beating up another student. [beating: verb]
Example
He received a severe beating from his opponent in the boxing match. [beating: noun]
thrashing
Example
The angry mob thrashed the car with sticks and stones. [thrashed: verb]
Example
Our team suffered a humiliating thrashing in the soccer match. [thrashing: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Beating is more commonly used than thrashing in everyday language, especially when referring to physical violence. Thrashing is less common and is often used in specific contexts such as sports or intense movements.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between beating and thrashing?
While beating is generally considered more informal and colloquial, thrashing can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it more versatile in terms of formality.