What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
perpetrator
Example
The perpetrator of the robbery was caught on camera. [perpetrator: noun]
Example
She was accused of being the perpetrator of the cyber attack. [perpetrator: noun]
offender
Example
He was convicted as an offender for stealing from the store. [offender: noun]
Example
She was warned by the teacher for being an offender of the classroom rules. [offender: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Offender is more commonly used than perpetrator in everyday language. Offender is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while perpetrator is less common and is often used in legal or criminal contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between perpetrator and offender?
Perpetrator is typically associated with a formal and legal tone, while offender is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
