student asking question

What is the difference between "inmate" and "prisoner"?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

This is a really good question! The simple answer is that, in most conversation, there is no difference. The term prisoner or inmate can be used to describe anyone who has been incarcerated/sent to prison. Ex: He was a prisoner in San Quentin for 10 years. Ex: He was an inmate in San Quentin for 10 years. Both of these examples are correct and the meaning is the same. However, the term prisoner can also be used to describe someone who is being held captive against their wishes anywhere, not just in prison. Ex: He was captured and kept as a prisoner of war. Ex: Her dad is very strict, she's basically a prisoner in her house.

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