What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
loafing
Example
I spent the afternoon loafing on the couch, watching TV. [loafing: verb]
Example
He got in trouble for loafing around instead of doing his work. [loafing around: phrasal verb]
slacking
Example
She was accused of slacking off at work and not meeting her deadlines. [slacking off: phrasal verb]
Example
The team lost the game because they were slacking in their training. [slacking: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Slacking is more commonly used than loafing in everyday language, especially in professional or academic contexts. Loafing is a less common term and is often used in a more neutral or even positive way.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between loafing and slacking?
Slacking is generally considered a more informal and colloquial term, while loafing can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
