What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
emphatic
Example
She was emphatic in her refusal to attend the party. [emphatic: adjective]
Example
He spoke emphatically, making it clear that he was not joking. [emphatically: adverb]
insistent
Example
Despite being told no, he remained insistent on getting his way. [insistent: adjective]
Example
She spoke in an insistent tone, making it clear that she would not take no for an answer. [insistent: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Insistent is more commonly used in everyday language than emphatic. Insistent is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while emphatic is less common and is typically used in more formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between emphatic and insistent?
Emphatic is generally considered more formal than insistent. It is often used in professional settings or formal writing to convey a strong conviction or emphasis.