What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
swearword
Example
He let out a string of swearwords when he realized he had lost his wallet. [swearwords: noun]
Example
She was scolded for using a swearword in front of her grandparents. [swearword: noun]
expletive
Example
Oh, expletive! I forgot my keys again. [expletive: interjection]
Example
He muttered a few expletives under his breath when he saw the traffic jam. [expletives: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Expletive is more commonly used than swearword in everyday language. Expletive is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while swearword is less common and refers to a more limited set of offensive or vulgar words.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between swearword and expletive?
While swearword is typically associated with a more informal and impolite tone, expletive is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.