What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
huff
Example
She huffed in annoyance when she saw the long line at the store. [huffed: verb]
Example
He huffed on the mirror to clear the fog. [huffed: verb]
Example
The singer took a deep huff before belting out the high note. [huff: noun]
puff
Example
He took a puff of his cigarette and exhaled slowly. [puff: noun]
Example
She puffed up the balloon until it was full. [puffed: verb]
Example
After running up the stairs, he was panting and puffing. [puffing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Puff is more commonly used than huff in everyday language and covers a wider range of contexts, including smoking, physical activity, and breathing patterns.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between huff and puff?
Both huff and puff are informal words and are not typically used in formal contexts.
