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 leave now. [insist: verb]
Example
She insisted on paying for dinner, even though it was my treat. [insisted: past tense]
urge
Example
I urge you to reconsider your decision. [urge: verb]
Example
The doctor urged her to quit smoking for the sake of her health. [urged: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Urge is more commonly used than insist in everyday language. Urge is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while insist is less common and tends to be used in more specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between insist and urge?
Both insist and urge can be used in formal or informal contexts, but urge is generally seen as more polite and appropriate for formal situations.
