What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
deontologist
Example
The deontologist argued that lying is always wrong, even if it saves someone's life. [deontologist: noun]
Example
Deontological ethics emphasizes the importance of following moral rules and duties. [deontological: adjective]
ethicist
Example
The ethicist wrote a book on the ethics of artificial intelligence. [ethicist: noun]
Example
Ethical theories help ethicists analyze and evaluate moral issues. [ethical: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ethicist is more commonly used than deontologist in everyday language. Ethicist is a broader term that encompasses a wider range of ethical topics and applications, while deontologist is a more specific term that refers to a particular approach to ethics.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between deontologist and ethicist?
Both deontologist and ethicist are formal terms that are typically used in academic or professional contexts. However, deontologist may be associated with a more rigid or dogmatic approach to ethics, while ethicist may be seen as more open-minded and flexible.