Exploring "rude" vs. "insulting": nuances in impoliteness

Reviewed and edited by

Lloyd Cooper 01/11/2024, 21:06

English.me team member

Rude and insulting. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "rude" and "insulting" describe behavior or language that can offend, hurt, or show a lack of respect toward someone.

What is different?

"Rude" implies a lack of manners or politeness, often unintentionally causing offense. "Insulting" specifically means intending to belittle or affront someone.

Which one is more common?

Examples of usage

Rude

It was rude of him to interrupt her while she was speaking.
She found the waiter's attitude quite rude when he ignored her requests.

Insulting

His comment about her work was not just unkind, it was downright insulting.
She considered the offer insulting given her years of experience.