What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
heir
Example
The eldest son was the heir to the family fortune. [heir: noun]
Example
She was the rightful heir to the throne. [heir: adjective]
Example
He was the heir to his father's business empire. [heir: noun]
beneficiary
Example
She was the sole beneficiary of her grandfather's estate. [beneficiary: noun]
Example
The new tax law will be a beneficiary for small businesses. [beneficiary: adjective]
Example
The charity aims to help beneficiaries of domestic violence. [beneficiaries: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Beneficiary is more commonly used than heir in everyday language. Beneficiary is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while heir is less common and has a more specific meaning.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between heir and beneficiary?
Both heir and beneficiary can be used in formal writing or speech, but heir may be perceived as more formal or archaic due to its historical connotation.
