What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
swindler
Example
The swindler convinced the elderly couple to invest their life savings in a fake business. [swindler: noun]
Example
He was arrested for swindling people out of their money through a Ponzi scheme. [swindling: gerund or present participle]
cheat
Example
She cheated on the exam by looking at her neighbor's paper. [cheated: past tense]
Example
He was accused of cheating in the game by using performance-enhancing drugs. [cheating: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cheat is more commonly used than swindler in everyday language. Cheat is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while swindler is less common and refers specifically to someone who engages in fraudulent activities for personal gain.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between swindler and cheat?
Both swindler and cheat are associated with a negative connotation and are typically used in informal contexts. However, swindler may be perceived as more formal due to its association with legal terminology and financial crimes.