What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tradesman
Example
The tradesman came to fix the leaky faucet in the kitchen. [tradesman: noun]
Example
He trained as a tradesman in carpentry and now runs his own business. [tradesman: noun]
Example
The electrician is a licensed tradesman who can perform complex wiring and electrical work. [tradesman: noun]
handyman
Example
I hired a handyman to fix the squeaky door and paint the living room. [handyman: noun]
Example
He's a real handyman and can fix just about anything around the house. [handyman: noun]
Example
She's not a professional tradesman, but she's a very capable handyman who can do basic plumbing and electrical work. [handyman: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Handyman is more commonly used than tradesman in everyday language. Handyman is a versatile term that covers a wide range of tasks and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while tradesman is a more specialized term that is typically used in more formal or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tradesman and handyman?
Tradesman is typically associated with a more formal or technical tone, while handyman is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.