What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bumming
Example
Let's just spend the day bumming around the city, exploring different neighborhoods. [bumming: verb]
Example
He's always bumming cigarettes off of his friends instead of buying his own. [bumming: present participle]
begging
Example
The homeless man was begging for spare change on the street corner. [begging: verb]
Example
She resorted to begging her parents for forgiveness after breaking their favorite vase. [begging: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bumming is less commonly used than begging in everyday language. Begging is a more specific term that is often associated with individuals in dire situations seeking assistance, while bumming is a more casual and informal term used to describe leisurely activities.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bumming and begging?
Both bumming and begging are informal terms, but begging carries a stronger connotation of neediness and desperation, making it less appropriate for formal contexts.
