What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
beleaguer
Example
The company was beleaguered by financial troubles and struggled to stay afloat. [beleaguered: past participle]
Example
The team's star player was beleaguered by injuries throughout the season. [beleaguered: adjective]
besiege
Example
The rebels besieged the castle, cutting off all supply routes. [besieged: past tense]
Example
After winning the lottery, she was besieged by friends and family asking for money. [besieged: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Besiege is more commonly used than beleaguer in everyday language. Besiege is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while beleaguer is less common and may be more specific in its usage.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between beleaguer and besiege?
Both beleaguer and besiege can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, besiege is more widely recognized and used, making it slightly more formal in certain situations.