What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
insured
Example
The insured party will receive compensation for damages caused by the accident. [insured: noun]
Example
She insured her car against theft and damage. [insured: verb]
beneficiary
Example
The beneficiary of the life insurance policy received a lump sum payment after the policyholder's death. [beneficiary: noun]
Example
The new tax law will benefit the company's shareholders as the beneficiaries of the tax cuts. [beneficiaries: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Insured is more commonly used than beneficiary in the context of insurance policies. Beneficiary is more commonly used in the context of wills, trusts, and financial accounts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between insured and beneficiary?
Both insured and beneficiary are formal words that are typically used in legal or financial contexts.