What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
wronged
Example
She felt wronged by her employer when she was passed over for a promotion. [wronged: adjective]
Example
He had been wronged by his business partner and was seeking legal action. [wronged: past participle]
mistreated
Example
The animal rights group protested against the circus for mistreating their animals. [mistreated: verb]
Example
She had been mistreated by her ex-boyfriend and was afraid to speak out. [mistreated: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mistreated is less common than wronged in everyday language. Wronged is a more versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while mistreated is more specific and often used in situations involving cruelty or abuse.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between wronged and mistreated?
Both wronged and mistreated are generally associated with a formal or serious tone, as they describe situations involving injustice or harm. However, mistreated may have a stronger emotional connotation due to its association with abuse or cruelty.
