What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
piggyback
Example
The child asked for a piggyback ride from his father. [piggyback: noun]
Example
She piggybacked her proposal on top of her colleague's successful pitch. [piggybacked: verb]
leverage
Example
He used a crowbar to leverage the door open. [leverage: verb]
Example
The company leveraged its strong brand reputation to expand into new markets. [leveraging: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Leverage is more commonly used than piggyback in everyday language, especially in business and finance contexts. Piggyback is less common and is mostly used in a literal sense.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between piggyback and leverage?
Leverage is generally considered more formal than piggyback, as it is often used in professional and business settings. Piggyback is more casual and playful in tone, and is often used in informal or childlike contexts.