What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
collaborator
Example
She is a valuable collaborator on our research project. [collaborator: noun]
Example
They collaborated on writing a book together. [collaborated: past tense verb]
associate
Example
He is an associate at the law firm. [associate: noun]
Example
She associates with influential people in her industry. [associates: present tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Associate is more commonly used than collaborator in everyday language. Associate is a versatile word that can be used to describe various professional relationships, while collaborator is more specific to working together on a particular project or task.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between collaborator and associate?
While collaborator is typically associated with a more formal tone, associate can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Associate is a broader term that can encompass different levels of professional connections, while collaborator specifically refers to active participation and cooperation in a project or task.
