What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
clerk
Example
The clerk at the grocery store helped me find the items on my shopping list. [clerk: noun]
Example
She is responsible for clerking duties, such as filing documents and scheduling appointments. [clerking: gerund or present participle]
assistant
Example
I hired an assistant to help me with administrative tasks and scheduling. [assistant: noun]
Example
She is currently assisting the manager with organizing the event. [assisting: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Assistant is a more commonly used term compared to clerk in everyday language. It is a versatile term that can be applied to various professions and industries. On the other hand, clerk is less common and is often associated with specific roles in retail or administrative settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between clerk and assistant?
While assistant is generally considered a more formal term, clerk can be used in both formal and informal contexts. The choice between the two depends on the specific context and level of formality required.
