What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
amanuensis
Example
The author dictated his new book to his amanuensis. [amanuensis: noun]
Example
She worked as an amanuensis for a famous novelist, typing up his manuscripts. [amanuensis: noun]
scribe
Example
The scribe carefully copied the religious text onto a scroll. [scribe: noun]
Example
The journalist worked as a freelance scribe, covering local news stories. [scribe: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Scribe is more commonly used than amanuensis in everyday language, especially in contexts related to writing or journalism. Amanuensis is more likely to be found in formal or academic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between amanuensis and scribe?
Both amanuensis and scribe can be used in formal contexts, but amanuensis may be perceived as more formal or archaic due to its historical associations with clerical work in medieval and early modern periods.
