What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
changing
Example
She is changing her hairstyle for a fresh new look. [changing: verb]
Example
The weather is changing from sunny to cloudy. [changing: present participle]
shifting
Example
He is shifting the furniture to create more space in the room. [shifting: verb]
Example
The company is going through a shifting of priorities. [shifting: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Changing is more commonly used than shifting in everyday language. Changing is a versatile word that can be applied to various situations and contexts. On the other hand, shifting is less common and is often used in more specific or specialized contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between changing and shifting?
Both changing and shifting can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, changing is generally considered more neutral and can be used in a wider range of formality levels, while shifting may have a slightly more deliberate or intentional connotation.
