What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lawyer
Example
I hired a lawyer to help me with my divorce case. [lawyer: noun]
Example
She is a successful lawyer who specializes in corporate law. [lawyer: noun]
solicitor
Example
I consulted a solicitor to help me with my property purchase. [solicitor: noun]
Example
He is a solicitor who works for a large law firm in London. [solicitor: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lawyer is a more commonly used term than solicitor in everyday language, especially outside of England and Wales. However, solicitor is more commonly used in legal contexts within England and Wales.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between lawyer and solicitor?
Solicitor is generally considered a more formal term than lawyer, especially in British English. However, both terms can be used in formal and informal contexts depending on the situation.