What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
intruder
Example
The alarm went off because there was an intruder in the building. [intruder: noun]
Example
I felt like an intruder when I accidentally walked into the wrong classroom. [intruder: noun]
invader
Example
The country was invaded by enemy forces, causing widespread destruction. [invaded: past tense verb]
Example
The army was preparing to repel any potential invaders from crossing the border. [invaders: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Intruder is a more common word than invader in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between intruder and invader?
Both intruder and invader are formal words that are typically used in serious or legal contexts. However, intruder is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal situations.