What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gendarmerie
Example
The gendarmerie is responsible for maintaining law and order in rural areas. [gendarmerie: noun]
Example
The gendarmes were called in to assist with the security operation. [gendarmes: plural noun]
police
Example
The police are investigating the robbery that took place last night. [police: noun]
Example
The officer asked for my ID when I was stopped by the police. [police: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Police is more commonly used than gendarmerie in everyday language, especially in English-speaking countries. Police is a familiar term that covers a wide range of law enforcement agencies, while gendarmerie is less common and often associated with specific countries or regions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gendarmerie and police?
Gendarmerie is typically associated with a formal and official tone due to its military structure and authority, while police is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
