What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
heiress
Example
The heiress to the fortune was ecstatic when she learned of her inheritance. [heiress: noun]
Example
She is the sole heiress to her father's estate. [heiress: noun]
legatee
Example
The legatee was overjoyed to receive the antique watch from his late grandfather. [legatee: noun]
Example
She was named as the legatee of her aunt's jewelry collection. [legatee: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Legatee is less common than heiress in everyday language. Heiress is more commonly used and has a more glamorous and wealthy connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between heiress and legatee?
Both heiress and legatee are formal words that are typically used in legal or financial contexts. However, heiress may be considered more formal due to its association with significant wealth and inheritance.
