What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
straggler
Example
The hikers noticed a straggler who was struggling to keep up with the group. [straggler: noun]
Example
The herd of sheep had a few stragglers that were left behind. [stragglers: plural noun]
Example
The student was a straggler in completing the assignment. [straggler: adjective]
laggard
Example
The company's laggard response to the crisis cost them dearly. [laggard: adjective]
Example
The laggard employee was always the last one to arrive at work. [laggard: noun]
Example
The runner was a laggard in the marathon, finishing last. [laggard: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Laggard is more commonly used than straggler in everyday language. Laggard is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while straggler is less common and may be considered more formal or literary.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between straggler and laggard?
While straggler may be considered more formal or literary, laggard is versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
