What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
applicant
Example
She is an excellent applicant for the position, with relevant experience and qualifications. [applicant: noun]
Example
I will be submitting my application as an applicant for the scholarship. [applicant: adjective]
petitioner
Example
The petitioner filed a complaint against the company for unfair treatment. [petitioner: noun]
Example
She is the petitioner in the divorce case, seeking custody of her children. [petitioner: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Applicant is more commonly used than petitioner in everyday language. Applicant is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while petitioner is less common and primarily used in legal or official settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between applicant and petitioner?
While applicant is generally more neutral and slightly formal, petitioner is more formal and often used in legal or official contexts.
