What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
rebarbative
Example
The rebarbative smell of the garbage made me feel sick. [rebarbative: adjective]
Example
His rebarbative personality made it hard for him to make friends. [rebarbative: adjective]
Example
The rebarbative task of cleaning the bathroom was not something I was looking forward to. [rebarbative: adjective]
repulsive
Example
The repulsive smell of the rotten food made me want to vomit. [repulsive: adjective]
Example
His repulsive comments towards women were completely unacceptable. [repulsive: adjective]
Example
The repulsive sight of the dead animal on the road made me feel sick. [repulsive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Repulsive is more commonly used than rebarbative in everyday language. Repulsive is a versatile word that can be used to describe a wide range of unpleasant things, while rebarbative is less common and more formal.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between rebarbative and repulsive?
Rebarbative is more formal than repulsive and is typically used in more academic or literary contexts. Repulsive is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.