What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bogeyman
Example
Don't be afraid of the dark, there's no bogeyman hiding under your bed. [bogeyman: noun]
Example
The idea of failure can sometimes become a bogeyman that holds us back from taking risks. [bogeyman: metaphorical]
bogey
Example
He made a bogey on the last hole, which cost him the tournament. [bogey: noun]
Example
The radar detected an incoming bogey on the screen. [bogey: military slang]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bogey is more commonly used than bogeyman in everyday language. Bogey has specific applications in golf and military contexts, making it more versatile and widely used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bogeyman and bogey?
Both bogeyman and bogey are informal words. However, bogey can also be used in formal contexts when referring to golf scores or military situations.
