What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
jostling
Example
The fans were jostling each other to get a better view of the stage. [jostling: verb]
Example
I felt a jostling sensation as the train started moving. [jostling: noun]
elbow
Example
He elbowed me in the ribs to get my attention. [elbowed: past tense verb]
Example
She gave him an elbow to the side to indicate that he was talking too loudly. [elbow: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Jostling is more commonly used than elbowing in everyday language, especially in the context of crowded or competitive situations. Elbowing is less common and usually only occurs in specific contexts, such as sports or informal social situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between jostling and elbow?
Both jostling and elbowing are informal words that are not typically used in formal contexts. However, jostling may be more versatile and can be used in a wider range of informal situations, while elbowing is more specific and may only be used in certain informal contexts.