What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tweaker
Example
The tweaker was up all night, pacing and talking to himself. [tweaker: noun]
Example
She became increasingly agitated and paranoid after using meth, displaying classic tweaker behavior. [tweaker: adjective]
junkie
Example
The junkie was arrested for stealing to support his heroin addiction. [junkie: noun]
Example
She had track marks on her arms from years of being a junkie. [junkie: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Junkie is more commonly used than tweaker in everyday language and has a wider recognition and stronger social stigma.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tweaker and junkie?
Neither tweaker nor junkie is considered formal language and both are generally avoided in professional or academic settings.