What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mooch
Example
He always tries to mooch cigarettes from me. [mooch: verb]
Example
She's been mooching off her parents for years. [mooching: gerund or present participle]
bum
Example
He lost his job and became a bum. [bum: noun]
Example
Stop bumming around and get a job! [bumming: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bum is more commonly used than mooch in everyday language, especially in American English. Mooch is less common and may be considered more informal or slang.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between mooch and bum?
Both mooch and bum are informal and can be considered impolite or offensive in certain contexts. However, bum may be more widely recognized and accepted in formal settings, such as academic or legal contexts.
