What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mentor
Example
My mentor helped me navigate the challenges of starting my own business. [mentor: noun]
Example
She mentored me through the process of writing my first book. [mentored: past tense verb]
tutor
Example
I hired a tutor to help me with my math homework. [tutor: noun]
Example
She tutored me in Spanish, and now I can speak it fluently. [tutored: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tutor is more commonly used than mentor in everyday language, especially in academic contexts. Mentor is less common and often used in professional or career-related settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mentor and tutor?
Mentor is typically associated with a more formal and professional tone, while tutor can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the situation.
