What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
claimant
Example
The claimant argued that they were wrongfully terminated from their job. [claimant: noun]
Example
She is the claimant in the lawsuit, seeking damages for the accident. [claimant: noun]
petitioner
Example
The petitioner requested a change in custody arrangements for their child. [petitioner: noun]
Example
The petitioner filed a petition with the court to challenge the new law. [petitioner: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Claimant is more commonly used than petitioner in everyday language, especially in legal and formal contexts. Claimant is a versatile term that can cover a wide range of situations where someone asserts a right or demand. Petitioner, on the other hand, is less common and is primarily used in legal settings when referring to someone who initiates legal proceedings through a petition.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between claimant and petitioner?
Both claimant and petitioner are formal terms that are commonly used in legal contexts. However, petitioner is more specific to legal proceedings and is often associated with court cases and formal petitions. Claimant has a broader usage and can be employed in various formality levels, making it suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
