What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
accomplice
Example
The police arrested the bank robber and his accomplice. [accomplice: noun]
Example
She was charged as an accomplice in the murder case. [accomplice: adjective]
confederate
Example
The confederates were plotting a rebellion against the government. [confederate: noun]
Example
She was a confederate in the scheme to defraud the company. [confederate: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Accomplice is more commonly used than confederate in everyday language, especially in legal contexts. Confederate is less common and is often used in historical or political contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between accomplice and confederate?
Accomplice is typically associated with a more formal tone, as it is often used in legal or criminal contexts. Confederate is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
