What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
drifter
Example
The drifter wandered into town looking for work. [drifter: noun]
Example
He's been drifting through life without any real goals or ambitions. [drifting: gerund or present participle]
itinerant
Example
The itinerant salesman traveled from town to town selling his wares. [itinerant: adjective]
Example
She worked as an itinerant farm laborer during the summer months. [itinerant: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Itinerant is more commonly used than drifter in everyday language, especially in formal contexts. Drifter is less common and may be considered slang or informal.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between drifter and itinerant?
Itinerant is more formal than drifter. It is often used in professional or academic contexts to describe people who travel for work or business. Drifter, on the other hand, is more informal and may be considered slang or colloquial.
