What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
freshman
Example
As a freshman, I was nervous about starting college. [freshman: noun]
Example
He's a freshman in the company and still learning the ropes. [freshman: adjective]
newcomer
Example
The city offers many resources for newcomers to help them settle in. [newcomers: plural noun]
Example
She's a newcomer to the team but has already made a positive impact. [newcomer: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Newcomer is more commonly used than freshman in everyday language, as it can be used in a wider range of situations. However, freshman is still widely used in educational contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between freshman and newcomer?
Both freshman and newcomer can be used in formal or informal contexts, but freshman may be considered more formal due to its association with educational institutions.