What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
freeload
Example
He always freeloads off his friends and never offers to pay for anything. [freeloads: verb]
Example
She's been freeloading at her parents' house for months without even looking for a job. [freeloading: gerund or present participle]
bum
Example
He's been a bum ever since he lost his job and refuses to look for another one. [bum: noun]
Example
Stop bumming around and start helping with the chores. [bumming: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bum is a more commonly used word than freeload in everyday language, and it has a wider range of contexts in which it can be used.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between freeload and bum?
Freeload is a more formal and technical term than bum, which is more informal and colloquial. Both words are generally considered impolite and should be used with caution.
