What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
offending
Example
His rude comments kept offending everyone in the room. [offending: verb]
Example
The comedian's jokes were offending some members of the audience. [offending: gerund or present participle]
insulting
Example
His comment about her appearance was insulting and uncalled for. [insulting: adjective]
Example
She felt insulted by his behavior at the party. [insulted: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Insulting is more commonly used than offending in everyday language. Insulting is a more specific term that carries a stronger negative connotation, while offending is a more neutral term that can cover a wider range of situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between offending and insulting?
Offending is generally considered more formal than insulting. It is often used in legal or professional contexts to describe violations of rules or regulations, while insulting is more commonly used in casual conversations or personal interactions.
