What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
barrister
Example
The barrister presented a strong argument in court to defend his client. [barrister: noun]
Example
She decided to hire a barrister to handle her divorce case. [barrister: noun]
lawyer
Example
I need to consult a lawyer to understand my rights in this situation. [lawyer: noun]
Example
He works as a corporate lawyer, specializing in business law. [lawyer: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lawyer is more commonly used than barrister in everyday language. Lawyer is a more general term that encompasses a wider range of legal professionals, while barrister is a more specific term referring to a subset of lawyers who specialize in courtroom advocacy.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between barrister and lawyer?
Both barrister and lawyer can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, barrister may be perceived as slightly more formal due to its association with the legal profession and courtroom proceedings.
