What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
huffed
Example
She huffed in frustration when she realized she had forgotten her keys. [huffed: verb]
Example
After running up the stairs, he huffed and puffed trying to catch his breath. [huffed: past tense]
Example
The old man huffed as he struggled to lift the heavy box. [huffed: verb]
puff
Example
He took a puff of his cigarette before putting it out. [puff: noun]
Example
The exhausted runner was panting and puffing after the marathon. [puffing: present participle]
Example
She blew a puff of air to cool down her hot soup. [puff: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Puff is more commonly used than huffed in everyday language. Puff has a wider range of contexts and can be used in both formal and informal settings. Huffed is less common and is typically used in informal or colloquial language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between huffed and puff?
While puff can be used in both formal and informal contexts, huffed is more informal and is not typically used in formal settings.
