What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
defector
Example
The defector fled to the neighboring country to seek asylum. [defector: noun]
Example
He defected from the ruling party and joined the opposition. [defected: past tense verb]
deserter
Example
The soldier was court-martialed for being a deserter during the war. [deserter: noun]
Example
She deserted her job without giving any notice to her employer. [deserted: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Deserter is more commonly used than defector in everyday language, especially in a military context. Defector is less common and is mostly used in a political or ideological context.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between defector and deserter?
Defector and deserter are both formal words that are used in serious and official contexts. However, deserter is more commonly used in everyday language and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
