What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
billingsgate
Example
The two politicians engaged in a heated debate, exchanging billingsgate throughout the entire discussion. [billingsgate: noun]
Example
She responded to his insults with a barrage of billingsgate, escalating the argument further. [billingsgate: noun]
invective
Example
His speech was filled with invective, attacking his opponents and their policies. [invective: noun]
Example
She unleashed a torrent of invective at her coworker, expressing her frustration and anger. [invective: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Invective is more commonly used than billingsgate in everyday language. Invective is a term that can be applied to a wider range of situations, including written or spoken criticism, while billingsgate is more specific to offensive language used in arguments or confrontations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between billingsgate and invective?
While billingsgate has a slightly informal and colloquial connotation, invective is more formal and can be used in both casual and formal contexts.
