What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
insecure
Example
She felt insecure about her appearance after seeing all the models in the magazine. [insecure: adjective]
Example
He was insecure about his job prospects after being rejected from multiple interviews. [insecure: adjective]
unconfident
Example
She was unconfident in her ability to speak in public. [unconfident: adjective]
Example
He felt unconfident about his answer to the math problem. [unconfident: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Insecure is more commonly used than unconfident in everyday language. It is a more versatile word that can be used in a wider range of contexts and situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between insecure and unconfident?
Both insecure and unconfident are relatively neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.