What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
roughhoused
Example
The kids roughhoused in the backyard, laughing and screaming. [roughhoused: verb]
Example
He got a black eye from roughhousing with his brother. [roughhousing: gerund or present participle]
tussle
Example
The two boys got into a tussle over who would get the last cookie. [tussle: noun]
Example
She tussled with her opponent on the wrestling mat, trying to pin him down. [tussled: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Roughhousing is more commonly used than tussle in everyday language. Roughhousing is a familiar term used to describe playful physical activity among friends or siblings, while tussle is less common and has a more negative connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between roughhoused and tussle?
Neither roughhousing nor tussle is particularly formal in tone, but tussle may be more likely to be used in serious or competitive contexts, while roughhousing is more likely to be used in informal or playful situations.
