What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
expletive
Example
Oh shoot! I forgot my keys again. [expletive: interjection]
Example
He used an expletive to express his frustration with the situation. [expletive: noun]
Example
I tend to use 'like' as an expletive when I'm nervous. [expletive: noun]
curse
Example
He cursed under his breath when he realized he missed the train. [curse: verb]
Example
She put a curse on him after he betrayed her trust. [curse: noun]
Example
The villagers believed that the witch had placed a curse on their crops. [curse: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Curse is more commonly used than expletive in everyday language, especially in informal contexts. However, expletives are becoming more common in mainstream media and popular culture.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between expletive and curse?
Expletives are generally considered less formal and more casual than curses. While expletives may be acceptable in some informal settings, curses are generally considered inappropriate in formal or professional contexts.
