What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
adjudicator
Example
The adjudicator listened to both sides of the argument before making a ruling. [adjudicator: noun]
Example
The company hired an external adjudicator to resolve the dispute between the two departments. [adjudicator: adjective]
arbiter
Example
The arbiter's decision was final and binding on both parties. [arbiter: noun]
Example
She was seen as the arbiter of good taste among her friends. [arbiter: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Adjudicator and arbiter are both relatively uncommon words in everyday language, but adjudicator is more commonly used in British English, while arbiter is more commonly used in American English.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between adjudicator and arbiter?
Adjudicator is generally considered more formal than arbiter, due to its association with legal and administrative contexts.