What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
criminologist
Example
The criminologist conducted a study on the correlation between poverty and crime rates. [criminologist: noun]
Example
She is pursuing a degree in criminology to become a criminologist. [criminology: noun]
criminalist
Example
The criminalist examined the DNA samples found at the crime scene to identify the suspect. [criminalist: noun]
Example
He is studying forensic science to become a criminalist. [forensic science: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Criminologist and criminalist are both technical terms that are not commonly used in everyday language. However, criminalist is more commonly used in the context of forensic science and crime investigation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between criminologist and criminalist?
Both criminologist and criminalist are formal terms used in professional contexts. However, criminalist may be more commonly used in law enforcement and legal settings, making it slightly less formal than criminologist which is more associated with academic and research settings.