What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
doctor
Example
The doctor prescribed medication for my cold. [doctor: noun]
Example
She is studying to become a doctor and hopes to work in a hospital. [doctor: noun]
practitioner
Example
The nurse practitioner examined my wound and recommended a course of treatment. [practitioner: noun]
Example
He is a licensed practitioner of acupuncture and has his own clinic. [practitioner: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Doctor is more commonly used than practitioner in everyday language, especially when referring to medical doctors. Practitioner is a more general term that can refer to various healthcare professionals, but may be less common in certain contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between doctor and practitioner?
Doctor is typically associated with a formal and professional tone, while practitioner may be associated with a more informal or alternative approach to healthcare.
