What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
harping
Example
My boss keeps harping on the importance of punctuality. [harping: present participle]
Example
I wish my friend would stop harping on her ex-boyfriend. [harping: gerund]
nagging
Example
My mother is always nagging me to clean my room. [nagging: present participle]
Example
He couldn't stand his girlfriend's constant nagging about his messy habits. [nagging: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Nagging is more commonly used than harping in everyday language. Nagging is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while harping is less common and more specific in meaning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between harping and nagging?
Both harping and nagging are informal words that are used in casual conversation. However, nagging can also be used in more formal contexts, such as in professional settings or legal documents.
