What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
author
Example
J.K. Rowling is the author of the Harry Potter series. [author: noun]
Example
She authored several best-selling novels in her career. [authored: past tense verb]
writer
Example
He is a talented writer and has published many articles. [writer: noun]
Example
She enjoys writing poetry in her free time. [writing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Writer is more commonly used than author in everyday language. Writer is a versatile term that covers a wide range of writing activities and can be used in various contexts. Author, on the other hand, is more specific and is commonly used in formal or professional settings when referring to someone who has written a book or literary work.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between author and writer?
While author is typically associated with a more formal and professional tone, writer can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Writer is a more inclusive term that can describe individuals at different skill levels and in various writing professions.
