What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
overbore
Example
The manager overbore the team's objections and implemented his own plan. [overbore: verb]
Example
Her overbore personality made it difficult for others to express their opinions. [overbore: adjective]
subdue
Example
The teacher tried to subdue the noisy classroom by speaking softly. [subdue: verb]
Example
He had to subdue his anger and remain calm during the argument. [subdue: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Subdue is more commonly used than overbore in everyday language. Subdue is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while overbore is less common and refers to specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between overbore and subdue?
Subdue is more formal than overbore, which is more informal and colloquial. However, both words can be used in formal or informal contexts depending on the situation and tone of the communication.