What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
abuser
Example
The victim reported her abuser to the police. [abuser: noun]
Example
He was accused of being an abuser of prescription drugs. [abuser: noun]
perpetrator
Example
The perpetrator of the robbery was caught on camera. [perpetrator: noun]
Example
She was the perpetrator of the cyberbullying incident. [perpetrator: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Perpetrator is more commonly used than abuser in legal or official contexts, while abuser may be used more informally in personal or social situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between abuser and perpetrator?
Perpetrator is generally considered more formal than abuser, which may be used more casually or informally.
