What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
crackpot
Example
He's a crackpot who believes the earth is flat. [crackpot: noun]
Example
That's a crackpot theory with no scientific evidence to support it. [crackpot: adjective]
nutcase
Example
He's a complete nutcase who talks to himself all day. [nutcase: noun]
Example
She went on a nutcase rant about aliens taking over the world. [nutcase: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Nutcase is more commonly used than crackpot in everyday language. Nutcase is a more extreme term and is often used to insult or criticize someone's behavior or mental state.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between crackpot and nutcase?
Neither crackpot nor nutcase are particularly formal words, but crackpot is slightly less informal than nutcase. Both words are best avoided in formal writing or polite conversation.
