What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bootlicker
Example
He is such a bootlicker, always complimenting the boss to get ahead. [bootlicker: noun]
Example
She was accused of bootlicking the teacher to get better grades. [bootlicking: gerund or present participle]
toady
Example
He is such a toady, always agreeing with the boss to get on their good side. [toady: noun]
Example
She toadied up to the professor in hopes of getting a recommendation letter. [toadied: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Toady is more commonly used than bootlicker in everyday language. Toady is versatile and covers a wider range of contexts, while bootlicker is less common and may have a slightly stronger negative connotation.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between bootlicker and toady?
While bootlicker is typically associated with a more informal tone, toady can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it more versatile in terms of formality.
