What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
noncommittal
Example
The politician's noncommittal response to the question frustrated the reporters. [noncommittal: adjective]
Example
She gave a noncommittal shrug when asked if she wanted to go out tonight. [noncommittal: adjective]
noncommittally
Example
He nodded noncommittally when his boss asked if he could work overtime. [noncommittally: adverb]
Example
She answered the question noncommittally, not wanting to offend anyone. [noncommittally: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Noncommittal is more commonly used than noncommittally in everyday language. Noncommittal is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while noncommittally is less common and mostly used in formal writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between noncommittal and noncommittally?
Both noncommittal and noncommittally are formal words that are often used in professional or academic settings. However, noncommittal is more commonly used in everyday language and can also be used in informal contexts.
