What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
adaptor
Example
I need an adaptor to charge my phone in this country. [adaptor: noun]
Example
She's a quick adaptor and can easily adjust to new surroundings. [adaptor: noun]
Example
The adaptor connects the hose to the faucet. [adaptor: noun]
converter
Example
I need a currency converter to know how much this costs in my home currency. [converter: noun]
Example
He's a great converter of old cars into electric vehicles. [converter: noun]
Example
I used a file converter to change the format of my document. [converter: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Adapter is more commonly used than adaptor in American English, while adaptor is more commonly used in British English. Converter is a more common word than adaptor in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between adaptor and converter?
Both adaptor and converter are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
