What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
impertinency
Example
His impertinency in interrupting the speaker was quite rude. [impertinency: noun]
Example
She showed impertinency by asking personal questions. [impertinency: noun]
incivility
Example
The incivility of the customer towards the waiter was unacceptable. [incivility: noun]
Example
He displayed incivility by not holding the door open for the elderly woman. [incivility: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Incivility is more commonly used than impertinency in everyday language, and is a more versatile word that can be used in various contexts. Impertinency is less common and more formal, and is typically used in specific contexts such as legal or academic writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between impertinency and incivility?
Impertinency is a more formal word than incivility, and is often used in legal or academic contexts. Incivility is a more versatile word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts, and is generally considered less formal than impertinency.
