What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
scoff
Example
She scoffed at the idea of going to a vegan restaurant. [scoffed: past tense]
Example
He always scoffs at my taste in music. [scoffs: present tense]
taunt
Example
The bullies taunted him about his weight. [taunted: past tense]
Example
She couldn't resist taunting her rival after winning the competition. [taunting: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Taunt is more commonly used than scoff in everyday language. Taunt is often used in situations of conflict or bullying, while scoff is less common and may be used in more formal or intellectual contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between scoff and taunt?
Both scoff and taunt are informal and negative expressions that are not appropriate for formal situations. However, scoff may be used in more intellectual or academic contexts where a more polite expression of disbelief is needed.
