What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pester
Example
The children kept pestering their mother for candy. [pester: verb]
Example
He was constantly pestering me about my plans for the weekend. [pestering: gerund or present participle]
hassle
Example
I had a hassle getting my passport renewed. [hassle: noun]
Example
Don't hassle me about the deadline, I'm doing my best. [hassle: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hassle is more commonly used than pester in everyday language. Hassle is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while pester is less common and often used in specific situations where someone is repeatedly bothering or annoying another person.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between pester and hassle?
Both pester and hassle are informal words that are suitable for casual conversations. However, hassle can also be used in more formal contexts, such as business or academic writing, while pester is less appropriate in such settings.
