What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cursing
Example
He was cursing under his breath when he realized he had lost his wallet. [cursing: verb]
Example
I don't appreciate your cursing in front of my children. [cursing: noun]
profanity
Example
The movie was full of profanity and violence. [profanity: noun]
Example
Using profanity in a job interview is not appropriate. [profanity: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cursing is more commonly used in everyday language, while profanity is less common and more likely to be used in specific contexts, such as literature or legal documents.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between cursing and profanity?
Profanity is generally considered more formal and serious than cursing, which is often associated with casual or informal settings. Therefore, profanity is less likely to be used in everyday conversation and more likely to be used in specific contexts, such as literature or legal documents.