What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
colleague
Example
I have a meeting with my colleagues to discuss the project. [colleagues: noun]
Example
She is my colleague at the law firm. [colleague: noun]
teammate
Example
He is my teammate in the soccer team. [teammate: noun]
Example
We need to communicate well as teammates to win the game. [teammates: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Colleague is more commonly used than teammate in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of professional contexts. Teammate is more specific and commonly used in informal or sports-related situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between colleague and teammate?
While colleague is typically associated with a formal tone due to its connection with work and professional environments, teammate is more informal and is commonly used in casual conversations or sports-related discussions.
