What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
puffing
Example
After running up the stairs, I was puffing heavily. [puffing: verb]
Example
He was puffing on his cigar, enjoying the rich flavor. [puffing: present participle]
Example
The old steam engine was puffing black smoke as it chugged along the track. [puffing: present participle]
blowing
Example
She was blowing out the candles on her birthday cake. [blowing: present participle]
Example
The wind was blowing so hard that it knocked over the trash cans. [blowing: verb]
Example
He was blowing into his harmonica, creating a soulful melody. [blowing: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Blowing is more commonly used than puffing in everyday language. Blowing is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while puffing is less common and often associated with smoking or steam engines.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between puffing and blowing?
Both puffing and blowing are relatively informal words, but puffing can have negative connotations when associated with smoking, making it less appropriate for formal contexts.
