What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
slammer
Example
He was sent to the slammer for his involvement in the robbery. [slammer: noun]
Example
The judge sentenced him to five years in the slammer. [slammer: noun]
penitentiary
Example
He was transferred to a maximum-security penitentiary after his escape attempt. [penitentiary: noun]
Example
The penitentiary was built in the late 1800s and still houses inmates today. [penitentiary: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Penitentiary is more commonly used than slammer in formal contexts, such as legal documents and news articles. However, slammer may be more commonly used in casual conversation and popular culture.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between slammer and penitentiary?
Penitentiary is generally considered more formal than slammer. It is often used in legal and official contexts, while slammer is more informal and colloquial.
