What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
peccant
Example
The peccant politician was caught taking bribes. [peccant: adjective]
Example
She confessed her peccant behavior to the priest. [peccant: adjective]
errant
Example
The errant hiker got lost in the woods. [errant: adjective]
Example
He apologized for his errant behavior and promised to do better. [errant: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Errant is more commonly used than peccant in everyday language. Errant is versatile and covers a wider range of contexts, while peccant is less common and typically used in more formal or religious settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between peccant and errant?
Peccant is more formal and religious in tone, while errant is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.