What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
insist
Example
I insist that we go to the beach today. [insist: verb]
Example
He insisted on paying for dinner, even though I offered to split the bill. [insisted: past tense]
demand
Example
The customer demanded a refund for the faulty product. [demand: verb]
Example
The boss demanded that the report be completed by the end of the day. [demanded: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Demand is more commonly used than insist in everyday language. Demand is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while insist is less common and may be perceived as more formal or polite.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between insist and demand?
While demand can be used in both formal and informal contexts, insist is typically associated with a more formal or polite tone, making it more appropriate for formal situations.