What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
overusing
Example
She was overusing her phone and spending too much time on social media. [overusing: verb]
Example
Overusing antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance. [overusing: present participle]
overuse
Example
The overuse of pesticides can harm the environment. [overuse: noun]
Example
He developed carpal tunnel syndrome due to overuse of his computer mouse. [overuse: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Overuse is more commonly used in formal writing or professional contexts, while overusing is more commonly used in everyday language or informal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between overusing and overuse?
Overuse is more formal than overusing, which is more commonly used in everyday language or informal contexts.
