What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
litigant
Example
The litigant was seeking compensation for damages caused by the defendant. [litigant: noun]
Example
The litigant's lawyer argued that their client had been wronged and deserved justice. [litigant's: possessive adjective]
defendant
Example
The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against them. [defendant: noun]
Example
The defendant's lawyer argued that there was insufficient evidence to prove their client's guilt. [defendant's: possessive adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Defendant is more commonly used than litigant in everyday language and is more versatile in its usage. Litigant is more likely to be used in formal legal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between litigant and defendant?
Litigant is a more formal term than defendant and is typically used in legal documents and court proceedings. Defendant is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
