What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lurker
Example
The lurker on the forum never posts anything but reads everything. [lurker: noun]
Example
He was a lurker at the party, standing in the corner and watching everyone. [lurker: noun]
watcher
Example
The security guard is a watcher, keeping an eye on the cameras all night. [watcher: noun]
Example
She's a bird watcher and spends hours observing different species. [watcher: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Watcher is more commonly used than lurker in everyday language, as it can be used in a wider range of contexts beyond online communities.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between lurker and watcher?
Both lurker and watcher are informal words that are unlikely to be used in formal contexts.