What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
scrounger
Example
He's always scrounging cigarettes from his coworkers. [scrounging: present participle]
Example
The scrounger managed to find a way to get free food at the event. [scrounger: noun]
freeloader
Example
He's such a freeloader, always expecting us to pay for his meals. [freeloader: noun]
Example
She's been freeloaded off her parents for years, refusing to get a job. [freeloaded: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Freeloader is more commonly used than scrounger in everyday language, especially in American English.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between scrounger and freeloader?
Both scrounger and freeloader are informal words with negative connotations. They are not appropriate for formal contexts and should be used with caution in any situation where politeness is required.
