What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
companioning
Example
She was there, companioning her friend through the difficult times. [companioning: verb]
Example
He enjoyed companioning his elderly neighbor on walks around the neighborhood. [companioning: gerund or present participle]
accompanying
Example
I will be accompanying my sister to the doctor's appointment. [accompanying: present participle]
Example
The pianist played beautifully while accompanying the opera singer. [accompanying: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Accompanying is more commonly used than companioning in everyday language. Accompanying is a versatile word that covers a wide range of situations, while companioning is less common and more specific to the role of being a friend or emotional support.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between companioning and accompanying?
While companioning is typically associated with a warm and informal tone, accompanying can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Accompanying is more neutral and can be used in professional settings, such as accompanying someone to a business meeting or event.