What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
squealer
Example
The employee was labeled a squealer after reporting the company's illegal activities to the authorities. [squealer: noun]
Example
He squealed on his friends to avoid getting in trouble himself. [squealed: past tense verb]
tattletale
Example
The teacher scolded the tattletale for telling on her classmates for talking during class. [tattletale: noun]
Example
She was known for tattling on her coworkers for taking extra breaks. [tattling: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tattletale is more commonly used than squealer in everyday language, especially when referring to children. Squealer is less common and may be associated with more serious or confidential situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between squealer and tattletale?
Both squealer and tattletale are informal words and are not typically used in formal contexts.
