What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
usurper
Example
The general was accused of being a usurper after he overthrew the government. [usurper: noun]
Example
The prince was seen as a usurper when he took the throne from his older brother. [usurper: adjective]
intruder
Example
The security system alerted us to an intruder in the building. [intruder: noun]
Example
I felt like an intruder when I accidentally walked into a private meeting. [intruder: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Intruder is more commonly used than usurper in everyday language. Intruder is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while usurper is less common and refers to a specific type of unwanted presence or interference.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between usurper and intruder?
While usurper is typically associated with a formal tone due to its association with politics and power, intruder can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
