What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
birching
Example
In the past, birching was a common form of punishment in schools. [birching: noun]
Example
The criminal was sentenced to birching as a means of deterrence. [birching: gerund or present participle]
caning
Example
The student received a caning for his disruptive behavior. [caning: noun]
Example
The judge ordered the criminal to be caned as part of his sentence. [caned: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Caning is more commonly used than birching in contemporary language. Caning is still practiced in some countries, particularly in Asia, while birching has been abolished in many jurisdictions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between birching and caning?
Both birching and caning are associated with formal and serious contexts due to their nature as forms of punishment. However, caning may be perceived as more formal and institutionalized due to its continued usage in certain legal and educational systems.
