What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fleecing
Example
The mechanic was accused of fleecing his customers by charging them for unnecessary repairs. [fleecing: verb]
Example
The tourists were fleeced by the street vendors who charged them exorbitant prices for souvenirs. [fleeced: past tense]
gouging
Example
The store was accused of gouging customers by raising the prices of essential items during the hurricane. [gouging: verb]
Example
The landlord was accused of gouging his tenants by raising the rent by 50% without any justification. [gouging: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Gouging is more commonly used than fleecing in everyday language, especially in the context of price gouging during times of crisis. Fleecing is less common and may be associated with more specific contexts such as cheating or swindling.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fleecing and gouging?
Both fleecing and gouging are informal words and may not be appropriate in formal contexts. However, gouging may be more commonly used in news articles or legal documents related to price gouging during times of crisis.
