What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
errant
Example
The errant hiker lost his way and ended up in the wrong part of the forest. [errant: adjective]
Example
The company's errant policies caused a lot of problems for its employees. [errant: adjective]
Example
The errant ball flew over the fence and landed in the neighbor's yard. [errant: adjective]
misbehaving
Example
The misbehaving student was sent to the principal's office. [misbehaving: verb]
Example
The misbehaving child was scolded by his parents for throwing a tantrum. [misbehaving: adjective]
Example
The misbehaving dog chewed up the couch cushions. [misbehaving: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Misbehaving is more commonly used than errant in everyday language, especially when referring to children or animals. Errant is less common and often used in more formal or literary contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between errant and misbehaving?
Errant is generally considered more formal than misbehaving, which is more commonly used in informal or everyday speech.
