What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bong
Example
He took a hit from the bong and blew out a cloud of smoke. [bong: noun]
Example
They were bonging all night at the party, having a great time. [bonging: present participle]
hookah
Example
We gathered around the hookah and enjoyed the fruity flavors of the shisha. [hookah: noun]
Example
She loves hookah nights with her friends, chatting and smoking together. [hookah: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bong is more commonly used than hookah in everyday language, especially in Western countries where marijuana smoking is prevalent. Hookah is more commonly used in specific contexts, such as Middle Eastern or South Asian communities or establishments that offer hookah smoking.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bong and hookah?
Both bong and hookah are informal terms and are typically used in casual conversations or among people familiar with smoking culture. However, hookah may be perceived as slightly more formal due to its association with cultural traditions.