What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
molester
Example
The man was arrested for molesting several children in the park. [molesting: verb]
Example
She felt uncomfortable around him because he would always try to touch her inappropriately. He was a known molester. [molester: noun]
abuser
Example
She finally left her husband after years of enduring his physical and emotional abuse. [abuse: noun]
Example
He was known to be an abuser of prescription drugs, which led to his addiction. [abuser: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Abuser is more commonly used than molester in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and types of harm. However, both words are serious and should be used with caution and sensitivity.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between molester and abuser?
Both molester and abuser are formal words that are typically used in serious or legal contexts. However, abuser may be more versatile and can be used in less formal situations as well.