What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
essayish
Example
The article had an essayish quality to it, with a clear thesis and supporting evidence. [essayish: adjective]
Example
She approached the topic in an essayish manner, providing a detailed analysis of the issue. [essayish: adverb]
probing
Example
The journalist's probing questions revealed new insights into the scandal. [probing: adjective]
Example
He conducted a probing investigation into the company's financial records. [probing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Essayish is less common than probing in everyday language, as it is more specific to academic or formal writing. Probing is more versatile and can be used in various contexts, making it more common in everyday speech.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between essayish and probing?
Essayish is typically associated with a formal and academic tone, while probing can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the subject matter and audience.