What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pillaging
Example
The invading army began pillaging the town, taking everything of value. [pillaging: verb]
Example
The pirates were notorious for pillaging ships and coastal towns. [pillaging: gerund or present participle]
sacking
Example
The enemy army sacked the city, leaving nothing but ruins. [sacked: past tense]
Example
The company decided to sack several employees due to budget cuts. [sack: verb]
Example
The rioters began sacking stores and buildings, causing chaos in the streets. [sacking: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sacking is more commonly used than pillaging in everyday language, especially in the context of firing or dismissing someone from their job. Pillaging is less common and is mostly used in the context of historical or fictional accounts of raids and looting.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pillaging and sacking?
Both pillaging and sacking are associated with a formal and serious tone, as they are often used in the context of war or conflict. However, sacking can also be used in a more neutral and informal context when referring to firing or dismissing someone from their job.
