What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
parents
Example
My parents are coming to visit me this weekend. [parents: noun]
Example
Parents are responsible for providing a safe and nurturing environment for their children. [parents: noun]
guardian
Example
The court appointed her aunt as her legal guardian after her parents passed away. [guardian: noun]
Example
He is my godfather and has always been a supportive guardian in my life. [guardian: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Parents is a more common term than guardians in everyday language, as it refers to the biological or legal guardians of a child. Guardians is a more specific term that is used in legal contexts or situations where the parents are absent or unable to care for the child.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between parents and guardian?
Guardians is a more formal term than parents, as it is often used in legal contexts. Parents is a more versatile term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.