What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
plebe
Example
The plebes at West Point have a rigorous training program. [plebes: plural noun]
Example
He was a plebe when he joined the Navy. [plebe: singular noun]
freshman
Example
I'm a freshman at Harvard this year. [freshman: noun]
Example
She's a freshman member of the debate team. [freshman: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Freshman is more commonly used than plebe in everyday language. Freshman is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while plebe is less common and is primarily used in military contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between plebe and freshman?
Plebe is typically associated with a formal and serious tone, while freshman is more casual and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
