What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
denizen
Example
The forest is home to many denizens, including deer and foxes. [denizens: noun]
Example
He was a denizen of the local coffee shop, always there for his morning cup of coffee. [denizen: noun]
Example
She became a denizen of the city after living there for over a decade. [denizen: noun]
resident
Example
The residents of the apartment complex complained about the loud noise coming from the party next door. [residents: noun]
Example
He became a legal resident of the United States after obtaining his green card. [resident: noun]
Example
She has been a resident of the town for over 20 years. [resident: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Resident is more commonly used than denizen in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between denizen and resident?
Resident is more neutral and commonly used in everyday language, making it appropriate for both formal and informal contexts. Denizen, on the other hand, has a more informal and literary connotation, making it more appropriate for informal or creative writing contexts.
