What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
incendiarist
Example
The police suspect that the fire was started by an incendiarist. [incendiarist: noun]
Example
He was known to be an incendiarist, having set several fires in the past. [incendiarist: adjective]
arsonist
Example
The arsonist was caught and arrested for starting the fire. [arsonist: noun]
Example
The police believe that the fire was caused by an arsonist. [arsonist: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Arsonist is more commonly used than incendiarist in everyday language and legal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between incendiarist and arsonist?
Arsonist is a more formal term than incendiarist, as it is a legal term used in criminal law.
