What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dodger
Example
He's a dodger when it comes to paying his bills on time. [dodger: noun]
Example
She's a great dodgeball player, always managing to avoid getting hit. [dodge: verb]
Example
He's a dodger when it comes to answering direct questions. [dodger: noun]
shirker
Example
He's a shirker who always manages to avoid doing his fair share of the work. [shirker: noun]
Example
She's a shirker who never volunteers for anything and always tries to get out of doing things. [shirk: verb]
Example
He's a shirker who always calls in sick when there's a big project due. [shirker: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shirker is more commonly used than dodger in everyday language.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between dodger and shirker?
Both dodger and shirker are informal words, but dodger can be used in a slightly more neutral or positive context, while shirker is always negative and carries a stronger connotation of laziness or dishonesty.
