What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gang
Example
The gang was responsible for the recent string of robberies in the area. [gang: noun]
Example
I'm meeting up with my gang later to play basketball at the park. [gang: informal term for a group of friends]
Example
The construction gang worked tirelessly to finish the project on time. [gang: group of workers]
syndicate
Example
The drug syndicate was responsible for smuggling drugs into the country. [syndicate: noun]
Example
The investors formed a syndicate to purchase the company. [syndicate: group of investors]
Example
The media syndicate worked together to cover the event from different angles. [syndicate: group of companies or organizations]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Gang is more commonly used than syndicate in everyday language, especially in informal contexts. Syndicate is more commonly used in formal or business contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gang and syndicate?
Syndicate is generally considered more formal than gang due to its association with business and organizational contexts. Gang is often used informally and can have a more casual tone.