What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
delinquent
Example
The company was delinquent in paying its taxes. [delinquent: adjective]
Example
The teenager was caught shoplifting and was labeled a delinquent. [delinquent: noun]
negligent
Example
The doctor was found negligent for failing to diagnose the patient's condition. [negligent: adjective]
Example
The employee was fired for being negligent in their job duties. [negligent: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Negligent is more commonly used than delinquent in everyday language. Negligent is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while delinquent is less common and typically used in legal or financial contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between delinquent and negligent?
Both delinquent and negligent are formal words that are typically used in professional or legal contexts.
