What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
envoy
Example
The President appointed an envoy to negotiate a peace treaty with the neighboring country. [envoy: noun]
Example
The company sent an envoy to meet with potential investors and discuss their business plan. [envoy: noun]
Example
She acted as an envoy for her boss, delivering a message to the board of directors. [envoy: noun]
emissary
Example
The spy acted as an emissary, gathering intelligence on the enemy's plans. [emissary: noun]
Example
The CEO sent an emissary to negotiate a merger with a rival company. [emissary: noun]
Example
He was chosen as the emissary to deliver the ransom demand to the kidnappers. [emissary: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Envoy is more commonly used than emissary in everyday language, especially in diplomatic or official contexts. Emissary is less common but can be used in a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between envoy and emissary?
Envoy is generally considered more formal than emissary, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the situation.
