What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
crossbencher
Example
The crossbenchers in the House of Lords are known for their independence and impartiality. [crossbencher: noun]
Example
He was elected as a crossbencher in the Senate, representing the interests of his constituents without being tied to any political party. [crossbencher: adjective]
unaffiliated
Example
She prefers to remain unaffiliated with any political party and vote based on the issues. [unaffiliated: adjective]
Example
The unaffiliated voters could play a crucial role in deciding the outcome of the election. [unaffiliated: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unaffiliated is more commonly used than crossbencher in everyday language, as it is a more general term that can be applied to a wider range of situations. Crossbencher is a more specialized term that is primarily used in the context of the British House of Lords.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between crossbencher and unaffiliated?
Crossbencher is a more formal term that is typically used in formal or academic contexts, while unaffiliated is more casual and can be used in everyday language.