What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
peddler
Example
The peddler went from house to house selling his wares. [peddler: noun]
Example
She peddled her handmade jewelry on the streets of the city. [peddled: past tense verb]
merchant
Example
The merchant sold high-quality fabrics in his store. [merchant: noun]
Example
She was a successful merchant who traded spices and silk with foreign countries. [merchant: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Merchant is a more common word than peddler in everyday language. Merchant is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while peddler is less common and often associated with a specific type of selling.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between peddler and merchant?
Merchant is generally considered a more formal term than peddler. While peddler is often associated with a more casual or informal tone, merchant is used in both formal and informal contexts and is associated with a more professional image.
