What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
knockabout
Example
He lived a knockabout life on the high seas, never staying in one place for too long. [knockabout: adjective]
Example
The knockabout comedian had the audience in stitches with his silly antics. [knockabout: noun]
vagabond
Example
The old man was a vagabond who traveled the country with nothing but a backpack and a guitar. [vagabond: noun]
Example
She led a vagabond existence, never staying in one place for too long. [vagabond: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Vagabond is more commonly used than knockabout in everyday language and is a more versatile term that can be used in various contexts. Knockabout is less common and is more likely to be used in specific contexts such as circus or comedy.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between knockabout and vagabond?
Both knockabout and vagabond are informal terms that are more likely to be used in casual conversation or creative writing. Neither word is particularly formal or appropriate for professional or academic contexts.
