What is the correct usage of the words "addictive" and "addicting" as in, "Drinking coffee every morning can be so [addictive/addicting]"?

skysmom65

I'm no English major so both seem about the same to me...I'm sure someone on this site can explain the difference in a way I can't! Addictive: Causing or tending to cause addiction: an addictive substance. Characterized by or susceptible to addiction: an addictive personality. Addicting: To cause to become physiologically or psychologically dependent on a habit-forming substance: The thief was addicted to cocaine. To occupy (oneself) with or involve (oneself) in something habitually or compulsively: The child was addicted to video games. http://www.answers.com/addicting Feb 26 07, 7:36 AM

star_gazer

They both work. Can be addictive and can be addicting both express a potential addiction. Feb 26 07, 9:19 AM

BnyKty

Are you asking for us to say if both of those words are a proper usage or to find a new word? If it's to find another word, I would use... "obsessing". Feb 26 07, 11:15 AM

star_gazer

The problem with using "obsessing" is that an obsession is a compulsion towards something unwanted, ie. being obsessed with thoughts of death, an addiction on the other hand is a compulsion towards something very much wanted like that morning cup of coffee. Feb 26 07, 10:37 PM

Jenga650

I am asking if one or other is correct, or if both are acceptable. Feb 27 07, 6:13 AM

Baloo55th

As in many cases in English, both are understandable and neither is grammatically incorrect. Neither carries any side meanings or implications that I can see, except that 'addicting' to me suggests something more active. Personally, I'd use 'addictive' rather than 'addicting' in the example you give. You can't refer to an 'addicting substance', however; the word there must be 'addictive'. Feb 27 07, 7:02 AM