What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
earwigged
Example
I couldn't help but earwig on their conversation, it sounded so interesting. [earwig: verb]
Example
She was caught earwigging on her boss's phone call and was reprimanded. [earwigging: gerund or present participle]
overhear
Example
I overheard my neighbors arguing last night, and it kept me up. [overheard: past tense]
Example
She didn't mean to overhear their conversation, but they were speaking so loudly. [overhear: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Overhear is more commonly used than earwigging in everyday language. Overhear is a neutral term that can happen accidentally, while earwigging is less common and has a negative connotation associated with intentional eavesdropping.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between earwigged and overhear?
Both earwigging and overhear are informal terms and are not typically used in formal contexts.
