What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
barrater
Example
The lawyer was known as a barrater, constantly filing frivolous lawsuits. [barrater: noun]
Example
She accused her opponent of being a barrater, using underhanded tactics to win the case. [barrater: adjective]
pettifogger
Example
The defense attorney was accused of being a pettifogger, constantly raising irrelevant objections. [pettifogger: noun]
Example
He was known for his pettifogger tactics, using legal technicalities to delay the trial. [pettifogger: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Barrater is more commonly used than pettifogger in American English, while pettifogger is more commonly used in British English. However, both words are relatively formal and may not be commonly used in everyday conversation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between barrater and pettifogger?
Both barrater and pettifogger are relatively formal words and may not be commonly used in informal contexts. However, barrater has a stronger negative connotation and is associated with intentional troublemaking and manipulation, while pettifogger has a slightly milder connotation and suggests someone who uses deceptive tactics but may not be as intentionally malicious.
