What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sticky
Example
The honey was so sticky that it was hard to wash off my hands. [sticky: adjective]
Example
The situation with the company's finances is quite sticky and will require some creative solutions. [sticky: adjective]
clingy
Example
My ex-boyfriend was so clingy that he would call me every hour. [clingy: adjective]
Example
I don't like wearing clingy clothes because they make me feel self-conscious. [clingy: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sticky is more commonly used than clingy in everyday language. Sticky is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while clingy is more specific and often used in interpersonal relationships.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sticky and clingy?
Both sticky and clingy are informal words and are not typically used in formal contexts.