What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hacker
Example
The company hired a hacker to test the security of their website. [hacker: noun]
Example
He spent hours hacking away at the code until he found the solution. [hacking: present participle]
cracker
Example
The cracker was able to steal sensitive information from the company's database. [cracker: noun]
Example
She was arrested for cracking into the government's computer system. [cracking: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hacker is more commonly used than cracker in everyday language. Hacker is often associated with positive connotations and is used to describe people who are skilled in computer programming. Cracker, on the other hand, is less common and has a negative connotation due to its association with illegal activities.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hacker and cracker?
Hacker is typically associated with a more formal tone, especially in the context of computer programming and cybersecurity. Cracker, on the other hand, is associated with an informal and negative tone due to its association with illegal activities.
