What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
laymen
Example
The book was written for laymen interested in learning about astrophysics. [laymen: plural noun]
Example
As a layman, I found the legal jargon in the contract difficult to understand. [layman: singular noun]
outsider
Example
As an outsider, it was interesting to observe the cultural differences between the two countries. [outsider: noun]
Example
He felt like an outsider at the party since he didn't know anyone there. [outsider: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Outsider is more commonly used than laymen in everyday language. Outsider is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while laymen is less common and typically used in the context of religion or a specific field or profession.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between laymen and outsider?
Both laymen and outsider are relatively informal words and can be used in casual conversation. However, laymen may be more appropriate in formal settings when discussing a specific field or profession.
