What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
offense
Example
The defendant was charged with committing a serious offense. [offense: noun]
Example
I took his comment as an offense and felt hurt. [offense: noun]
Example
It's considered an offense to talk loudly on your phone in a library. [offense: noun]
violation
Example
The company was fined for violating environmental regulations. [violating: verb]
Example
The paparazzi's actions were a violation of the celebrity's privacy. [violation: noun]
Example
Cheating on a test is a violation of academic integrity. [violation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Offense is more commonly used than violation in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts. However, violation is more commonly used in legal or formal contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between offense and violation?
Violation is generally more formal than offense, as it is often used in legal or official documents. However, both words can be used in formal or informal contexts depending on the situation.
