Addicting vs Addictive
What’s the difference between them?
Addicting
Meaning:
Not a word; likely meant 'addictive'.
Examples:
no examples
Addictive
Meaning:
Having the quality of causing or tending to cause addiction.
Examples:
1. Video games can be very addictive.
2. Some people find shopping to be an addictive habit.
3. The show was so entertaining that it was almost addictive.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Addicting
This word doesn't exist, so there are no synonyms for it.
This word doesn't exist, so there are no antonyms for it.
Addictive
1. Compulsive
2. Obsessive
3. Habit-forming
4. Alluring
5. Hard to resist
1. Detrimental
2. Abstentious
3. Repulsive
4. Unappealing
5. Avoidable
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Addicting", "Addictive".
1. Remember that 'addicting' is not an adjective and is not used in English.
2. 'Addictive' is the correct spelling of the adjective, and it is used in both American and British English.
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the word 'addicting' be used?
'Addicting' is not a word and should be avoided in English language.
When is the appropriate context for using the word 'addictive'?
'Addictive' is used to describe a situation or activity that is habit-forming and potentially harmful. It is used to describe something that is so enjoyable or exciting that people find themselves unable to stop engaging in it, despite the potential for it to be harmful.
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
No, 'addicting' and 'addictive' are pronounced differently. 'Addicting' is pronounced with a short I sound (add-ict-ing) while 'addictive' is pronounced with a long I sound (add-ick-tiv).
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
A common mistake people make when using these words is using 'addicting' when they should be using 'addictive'. Remember that 'addictin' is not a word and should be avoided.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. Many people find online video games to be __________.
2. She was warned about the __________ nature of the drug.
3. I couldnt get enough of the __________ candy.
4. He was struggling with a serious __________ problem.
5. She had become __________ to the medication.
6. They said it was the most __________ game they had ever tried.
1. Many people find online video games to be addictive.
Explanation: The adjective addictive is used to describe something that is habit-forming or compulsive in nature, making it the appropriate choice to fill the gap.
2. She was warned about the addictive nature of the drug.
Explanation: The verb addictive is used to describe the act of becoming addicted to something and is the correct choice to fill the gap.
3. I couldnt get enough of the addictive candy.
Explanation: The adjective addictive is used to describe something that is habit-forming or compulsive in nature, making it the appropriate choice to fill the gap.
4. He was struggling with a serious addiction problem.
Explanation: The noun addiction is used to describe the condition of being addicted to something and is the correct choice to fill the gap.
5. She had become addicted to the medication.
Explanation: The verb addicted is used to describe the state of being addicted to something and is the correct choice to fill the gap.
6. They said it was the most addictive game they had ever tried.
Explanation: The verb addictive is used to describe the act of becoming addicted to something and is the correct choice to fill the gap.
Get a gift by subscribing to our newsletter!
Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.