What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
overblaming
Example
The manager was overblaming the new employee for the company's financial losses. [overblaming: verb]
Example
The teacher's overblaming of the student caused unnecessary stress and anxiety. [overblaming: noun]
scapegoat
Example
The innocent man was made a scapegoat for the crime he did not commit. [scapegoat: noun]
Example
The company used the department head as a scapegoat for their poor performance. [scapegoat: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Scapegoat is more commonly used than overblaming in everyday language. Scapegoat has a more specific and negative connotation, making it more suitable for describing situations where someone is unfairly blamed.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between overblaming and scapegoat?
Both overblaming and scapegoat are informal words and are not typically used in formal contexts.