What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
intern
Example
I'm interning at a law firm this summer to gain experience. [interning: present participle]
Example
The intern was tasked with conducting research for the project. [intern: noun]
assistant
Example
She hired an assistant to help her with her workload. [assistant: noun]
Example
He is currently assisting the marketing team with their campaign. [assisting: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Assistant is a more commonly used term than intern in everyday language. Assistant positions are found in a wide range of industries and fields, while internships are more common in certain industries such as law, medicine, and media.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between intern and assistant?
Assistant is a more formal term than intern. Assistant positions are often associated with a higher level of responsibility and professionalism, while internships are seen as a way for students or recent graduates to gain entry-level experience in a particular field.