What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mutator
Example
The setAge() method is a mutator that changes the age attribute of the Person object. [mutator: noun]
Example
The decorator pattern is a design pattern that uses mutators to modify the behavior of an existing class. [mutators: plural noun]
Example
The CRISPR-Cas9 system is a gene editing tool that acts as a mutator to alter the DNA sequence of an organism. [mutator: noun]
converter
Example
I used an online converter to change the PDF file to a Word document. [converter: noun]
Example
The analog-to-digital converter (ADC) is a device that converts analog signals to digital signals. [converter: noun]
Example
He was a devout Hindu who later became a Christian convert. [convert: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Converter is more commonly used than mutator in everyday language. Converter is a versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts, while mutator is more specific to programming and genetics.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mutator and converter?
Both mutator and converter are technical terms that are more likely to be used in formal or technical contexts. However, converter is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal settings, while mutator is more specific to programming and genetics, making it less common in everyday language.
