What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
stalking
Example
The celebrity was being stalked by a fan who followed her everywhere. [stalked: past tense]
Example
He was arrested for stalking his ex-girlfriend and constantly calling her. [stalking: gerund or present participle]
harassment
Example
She filed a complaint against her boss for harassment in the workplace. [harassment: noun]
Example
He was accused of sexually harassing his co-worker and making inappropriate comments. [harassing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Harassment is more commonly used than stalking in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of behaviors and contexts. However, stalking is a serious crime that can have severe consequences for the victim and the perpetrator.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between stalking and harassment?
Both stalking and harassment are formal terms that are typically used in legal or professional contexts. However, harassment can also be used in informal settings to describe unwanted behavior towards someone.