What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
insult
Example
He insulted her by calling her stupid. [insult: verb]
Example
She took his insult personally and felt hurt. [insult: noun]
offend
Example
His comment about her weight offended her. [offend: verb]
Example
She was deeply offended by his behavior. [offend: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Offend is more commonly used than insult in everyday language. Offend is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while insult is more specific and less common.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between insult and offend?
Both insult and offend can be used in formal or informal contexts, but insult is generally considered more informal and impolite than offend.