What's the Difference Between 'Addicting' and 'Addictive'?

In this blog post we look at when to use addicting and when to use addictive.

'Addicting' or 'Addictive'?

"Addicting" is an adjective that describes something that has the potential to cause addiction or to cause someone to become dependent on it. It is often used informally and is not considered standard English.

"Addictive," on the other hand, is a more commonly used adjective that describes something that has the potential to be habit-forming or that causes a strong desire or craving.

In summary, "addicting" is an informal adjective that describes something that has the potential to cause addiction, while "addictive" is a more commonly used adjective that describes something that has the potential to be habit-forming or that causes a strong desire or craving.

Here are some examples that illustrate the difference between "addicting" and "addictive":

  • "The game was so addicting that I couldn't put it down for hours." (informal)

  • "The drug was highly addictive and caused serious problems for users." (standard English)

Examples of Addicting in a Sentence

Here are ten sentences using the word "addicting":

  1. "I can't stop playing this game, it's so addicting!"

  2. "I never realized how addicting social media could be until I got my first smartphone."

  3. "The show was so addicting that I binged all five seasons in one weekend."

  4. "I don't think I've ever met someone who isn't addicted to coffee."

  5. "I know I shouldn't, but I just can't resist the addicting flavor of greasy fast food."

  6. "I'm trying to cut back on my sugar intake, but those donut holes are just so addicting."

  7. "I can't believe how addicting this puzzle game is, I've been playing for hours."

  8. "I've never been into video games, but this one is so addicting that I can't put it down."

  9. "I can't believe how addicting this new app is, I've spent hours scrolling through it."

  10. "I don't usually like action movies, but this one is so addicting that I couldn't turn it off."

Examples of Addictive in a Sentence

  1. The new video game has become highly addictive for many players.

  2. He found the chocolate cake to be so addictive that he couldn't stop eating it.

  3. The nicotine in cigarettes can be highly addictive for some people.

  4. Many people find social media to be an addictive pastime.

  5. The new smartphone app has an addictive gameplay that keeps users coming back for more.

  6. Some people find exercise to be an addictive activity that they can't live without.

  7. The high levels of sugar in soda can make it addictive for some people.

  8. She found the book series to be so addictive that she couldn't put it down.

  9. Many people find gambling to be an addictive activity that can lead to financial problems.

  10. The TV show was so addictive that he binge-watched the entire series in a single weekend.


Addicting or Addictive
Addicting or Addictive