What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
backbiter
Example
She is known as a backbiter because she always talks badly about her colleagues when they're not around. [backbiter: noun]
Example
He was hurt by the backbiting comments made by his so-called friends. [backbiting: adjective]
slanderer
Example
The politician filed a lawsuit against the slanderer who spread false information about him. [slanderer: noun]
Example
She was devastated by the slanderous remarks made about her on social media. [slanderous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Slanderer is a less commonly used term compared to backbiter. In everyday language, backbiter is more frequently used to describe someone who speaks negatively about others behind their backs.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between backbiter and slanderer?
Both backbiter and slanderer are informal terms. However, slanderer may carry a slightly more formal tone due to its association with legal implications and the seriousness of spreading false information.