What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
greenhorn
Example
As a greenhorn in the company, he had a lot to learn. [greenhorn: noun]
Example
She felt like a greenhorn when she started playing the guitar. [greenhorn: adjective]
novice
Example
He was a novice at cooking, but he was eager to learn. [novice: noun]
Example
She felt like a novice when she started her new job. [novice: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Novice is more commonly used than greenhorn in everyday language and is more versatile in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between greenhorn and novice?
Novice is more formal than greenhorn and is often used in professional or academic contexts, while greenhorn is more informal and has a rural connotation.
