What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hounding
Example
The paparazzi were hounding the celebrity for a photo. [hounding: verb]
Example
The detective was hounding the suspect, trying to get a confession. [hounding: gerund or present participle]
harassment
Example
She filed a complaint against her boss for sexual harassment. [harassment: noun]
Example
The protesters were shouting and harassing the customers outside the store. [harassing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Harassment is a more common word than hounding in everyday language, especially in the context of workplace, school, or online bullying. Hounding is less common and may be used in specific situations, such as media coverage or animal hunting.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between hounding and harassment?
Harassment is a formal and serious term that is often used in legal or official contexts, while hounding is a more informal and colloquial term that may be used in casual conversations or media reports.
