What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
maven
Example
She's a real maven when it comes to fashion. [maven: noun]
Example
He's been a tech maven for years, always staying ahead of the curve. [maven: adjective]
guru
Example
He's a marketing guru, with years of experience and success. [guru: noun]
Example
She's considered a guru in the world of yoga, with a large following. [guru: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Guru is more commonly used than maven in everyday language, and is recognized worldwide as a term for an expert or master in a particular field.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between maven and guru?
Guru is generally considered more formal than maven, and is often used in professional or academic contexts. However, both words can be used in a variety of settings depending on the tone and context of the conversation.