What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
grift
Example
The con artist used various grifts to swindle people out of their life savings. [grifts: noun]
Example
He grifted his way through life, always looking for the next opportunity to cheat someone. [grifted: verb]
swindle
Example
The salesman tried to swindle me by selling me a faulty product. [swindle: verb]
Example
She fell victim to a swindle and lost all her savings. [swindle: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Swindle is more commonly used than grift in everyday language and is more versatile in its usage. Grift is less common and is often associated with a specific type of con or scam.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between grift and swindle?
Swindle is more formal in tone and is commonly used in legal contexts, while grift has a more informal and colloquial connotation and is less commonly used in formal settings.
