What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
wastrel
Example
He was a wastrel who spent all his inheritance on frivolous things. [wastrel: noun]
Example
She accused him of being a wastrel who never did anything productive. [wastrel: adjective]
waster
Example
Don't be a waster and turn off the lights when you leave the room. [waster: noun]
Example
He was criticized for being a waster who let his talents go to waste. [waster: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Waster is more commonly used than wastrel in everyday language. Waster is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while wastrel is less common and has a stronger negative connotation.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between wastrel and waster?
Both wastrel and waster are informal words and are not typically used in formal contexts.