What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
citizen
Example
She became a citizen of the United States after living there for five years. [citizen: noun]
Example
As a responsible citizen, it's important to vote in elections. [citizen: adjective]
resident
Example
He has been a resident of this town for over ten years. [resident: noun]
Example
The new apartment complex is open to residents of all ages. [resident: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Resident is more commonly used than citizen in everyday language. Resident is a broader term that can be used to describe anyone living in a specific place, regardless of their legal status. On the other hand, citizen is a more specific term that is used when referring to legal membership in a country.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between citizen and resident?
While resident is generally considered neutral in terms of formality, citizen is often used in more formal contexts, especially when discussing legal matters or citizenship status.
