What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
esquire
Example
Dear Mr. Smith, Esq., I am writing to inquire about your legal services. [Esq.: suffix]
Example
John Doe, Esquire, will be representing me in court. [Esquire: noun]
attorney
Example
I need to hire an attorney to help me with my divorce case. [attorney: noun]
Example
The attorney general is the chief legal officer of the government. [attorney: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Attorney is more commonly used than esquire in everyday language, especially in the United States. Esquire is primarily used in the United Kingdom and is less common in other English-speaking countries.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between esquire and attorney?
Esquire is typically associated with a more formal and traditional tone, while attorney is more versatile and can be used in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
