What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cleaner
Example
The office hired a cleaner to come in every evening and tidy up. [cleaner: noun]
Example
She works as a cleaner at a hotel, ensuring that the rooms are spotless. [cleaner: noun]
maid
Example
The family hired a maid to help with the housekeeping chores. [maid: noun]
Example
She works as a live-in maid for a wealthy family, taking care of their cleaning needs. [maid: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
In everyday language, cleaner is more commonly used than maid. Cleaner is a more general term that can be applied to various cleaning contexts, while maid is more specific to domestic work in private households.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cleaner and maid?
While cleaner is a neutral and versatile term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts, maid can have a more formal or traditional connotation. Maid is often associated with domestic work and may be used in more formal or traditional settings.