What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cockshy
Example
The new employee became the cockshy for all the problems in the department. [cockshy: noun]
Example
She felt like a cockshy when her classmates constantly teased and mocked her. [cockshy: adjective]
scapegoat
Example
The politician used the minority community as a scapegoat to divert attention from his own corruption. [scapegoat: noun]
Example
She was scapegoated by her colleagues for the team's failure, even though she had put in her best effort. [scapegoated: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Scapegoat is more commonly used than cockshy in everyday language. It is a versatile term that can be applied to various situations where someone is unfairly blamed or made to bear the consequences of others' actions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cockshy and scapegoat?
While cockshy is associated with a more informal tone, scapegoat is considered more formal and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.