What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tinkerer
Example
My grandfather was a tinkerer who loved to fix old radios. [tinkerer: noun]
Example
She spent the weekend tinkering with her bike, trying to make it faster. [tinkering: gerund or present participle]
repairman
Example
The repairman came to fix my washing machine. [repairman: noun]
Example
He is a certified repairman for Apple products. [repairman: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Repairman is more commonly used than tinkerer in everyday language, especially in professional contexts. Tinkerer is less common and often used to describe someone's hobby or interest.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tinkerer and repairman?
Repairman is more formal than tinkerer, as it is associated with a professional context. Tinkerer is more casual and informal, as it is often used to describe someone's hobby or passion.