What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
parent
Example
My parents are coming to visit me this weekend. [parents: noun]
Example
She is a single parent, raising her two children on her own. [parent: noun]
Example
I need to ask my parents for permission before I go out tonight. [parents: noun]
guardian
Example
The child's aunt was appointed as their legal guardian after their parents passed away. [guardian: noun]
Example
He became the guardian of his elderly neighbor after she fell and broke her hip. [guardian: noun]
Example
The security guard acted as a guardian of the museum's valuable artifacts. [guardian: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Parent is a more common term than guardian in everyday language, as it is used to refer to the biological mother or father of a child as well as the primary caregiver or legal guardian of a child. Guardian is typically used in legal contexts or when referring to a person who has been appointed to care for someone who is unable to care for themselves.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between parent and guardian?
Guardian is a more formal term than parent, as it is typically used in legal or official contexts. Parent is a more versatile term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
