What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
buccaneer
Example
The buccaneer sailed the Caribbean, raiding ships and amassing a fortune. [buccaneer: noun]
Example
He decided to buccaneer his way through life, seeking excitement and riches. [buccaneer: verb]
corsair
Example
The corsair attacked the merchant vessel, seizing its valuable cargo. [corsair: noun]
Example
They decided to corsair their way across the seas, looking for fame and fortune. [corsair: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Buccaneer is more commonly used than corsair in everyday language, especially in reference to pirates from the Caribbean. Corsair is less common and has a more specific association with pirates from the Mediterranean Sea.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between buccaneer and corsair?
Both buccaneer and corsair have a somewhat formal tone due to their historical connotations. However, buccaneer is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while corsair is less commonly used and may sound more formal or literary.
