What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
grousing
Example
He's always grousing about his job, but he never does anything to change it. [grousing: present participle]
Example
The team was grousing about the coach's decision to bench their star player. [grousing: gerund]
whining
Example
Stop whining and finish your homework. [whining: verb]
Example
The baby was whining all night, keeping us awake. [whining: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Whining is more commonly used than grousing in everyday language. Whining is a more versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while grousing is less common and may be considered more formal or specific.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between grousing and whining?
While grousing is typically associated with a more formal or serious tone, whining is more informal and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, whining may be perceived as less professional or mature in formal settings.
