What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
desperado
Example
The desperado robbed the bank and fled on horseback. [desperado: noun]
Example
He was known as a desperado, feared by many in the town. [desperado: adjective]
rogue
Example
The rogue trader caused the company to lose millions of dollars. [rogue: noun]
Example
He had a rogue personality, always doing things his own way. [rogue: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Rogue is more commonly used than desperado in everyday language. Rogue is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while desperado is less common and has a more specific association with the American Wild West.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between desperado and rogue?
Both desperado and rogue are informal words that are not typically used in formal contexts.