What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
snub
Example
She snubbed him by turning her back and walking away. [snubbed: verb]
Example
He felt snubbed when he wasn't invited to the party. [snubbed: adjective]
spurn
Example
He spurned her offer of help, insisting he could do it himself. [spurned: verb]
Example
The company spurned the idea of a merger, preferring to remain independent. [spurned: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Snub is more commonly used than spurn in everyday language, and it covers a wider range of contexts. Spurn is less common and more formal, typically used in more serious or professional settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between snub and spurn?
Spurn is more formal than snub, and it is typically used in more serious or professional settings. Snub is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
