What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
peer
Example
As a student, it's important to have peers to study with and learn from. [peer: noun]
Example
She was recognized by her peers for her outstanding work in the field. [peers: plural noun]
colleague
Example
I have a meeting with my colleagues from the marketing department. [colleagues: plural noun]
Example
My colleague and I are working on a research project together. [colleague: singular noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Colleague is more commonly used than peer in professional or work-related contexts. Peer is more commonly used in academic or social contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between peer and colleague?
Colleague is more formal than peer. While peer can be used in both formal and informal contexts, colleague is typically used in more formal settings such as business or academic environments.
