What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
informer
Example
The informer provided the police with valuable information about the drug cartel. [informer: noun]
Example
She's such an informer, always telling the teacher when someone breaks the rules. [informer: adjective]
informant
Example
The FBI used an informant to gather evidence against the organized crime syndicate. [informant: noun]
Example
He was an informant for the company, providing them with insider information about their competitors. [informant: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Informant is more commonly used than informer in everyday language. Informant is more versatile and can be used in various contexts, while informer is less common and often associated with negative connotations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between informer and informant?
Informant is more formal than informer and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Informer is typically associated with a more informal tone and is less appropriate for formal situations.
