What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
prentice
Example
He started as a prentice in his father's carpentry business. [prentice: noun]
Example
She's still a prentice and has a lot to learn about the industry. [prentice: adjective]
apprentice
Example
He was hired as an apprentice electrician and is learning on the job. [apprentice: noun]
Example
She's currently apprenticing with a famous chef to learn more about cooking. [apprenticing: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Apprentice is more commonly used than prentice in everyday language. Prentice is an old-fashioned spelling and is rarely used today, except in historical or literary contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between prentice and apprentice?
Apprentice is more commonly used in formal contexts, such as in job titles or legal documents. Prentice is more informal and less common, and may have a nostalgic or old-fashioned connotation.
