What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
equestrian
Example
She is an equestrian and competes in show jumping competitions. [equestrian: noun]
Example
He has equestrian skills and can ride horses with ease. [equestrian: adjective]
horseman
Example
He is a horseman and trains racehorses for a living. [horseman: noun]
Example
She has horseman skills and can handle horses with confidence. [horseman: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Equestrian is more common in modern usage, especially in the context of horseback riding as a sport or hobby. Horseman is less common but still widely used, particularly in the context of horse care and management.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between equestrian and horseman?
Equestrian is generally considered more formal than horseman, which has a more casual and colloquial tone. However, both words can be used in various formality levels depending on the context.