What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bustling
Example
The streets of New York City are always bustling with people and cars. [bustling: adjective]
Example
The market was bustling with shoppers looking for bargains. [bustling: present participle]
lively
Example
The concert was so lively, with everyone dancing and singing along. [lively: adjective]
Example
The pub is always lively on Friday nights, with live music and laughter. [lively: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lively is more commonly used than bustling in everyday language. Lively is a versatile word that can be applied to a wide range of situations and contexts, while bustling is more specific and often used in specific scenarios where there is a lot of activity and movement.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bustling and lively?
Both bustling and lively can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, lively is generally considered more neutral and can be used in a wider range of formality levels, while bustling may have a slightly more informal tone due to its association with busy urban areas or markets.
