What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
deputy
Example
The deputy mayor will be attending the meeting instead of the mayor. [deputy: noun]
Example
The manager appointed a deputy to oversee the project while she was away. [deputy: adjective]
Example
The lawyer acted as a deputy for her client during the court proceedings. [deputy: preposition]
proxy
Example
I gave my friend proxy to vote on my behalf at the shareholders' meeting. [proxy: noun]
Example
The CEO appointed a proxy to attend the conference in her place. [proxy: adjective]
Example
The diplomat acted as a proxy for her country during the peace negotiations. [proxy: preposition]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Deputy is more commonly used than proxy in everyday language, especially in government or political contexts. Proxy is more specialized and tends to be used in specific legal or business situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between deputy and proxy?
Deputy is generally considered more formal and respectful than proxy, which can sometimes have negative connotations of being a last resort or inferior option. However, both words can be used in formal or informal contexts depending on the situation.