'Adviser' vs 'Advisor' : What’s the Difference?

You might have seen these two different spellings for the same word being used and wondered: is it 'adviser' vs 'advisor'? After reading this article, you'll no longer wonder.

The reality is these two spellings are both correct and, therefore, 'adviser' and 'advisor' are interchangeable.

The Difference Between 'Adviser' vs 'Advisor'

'Adviser' vs 'advisor' are, in fact, the same word; it just has two possible spellings. Is one of them preferred? Not really. Sure, if you search online, you'll find different sources crediting a different word as favorite, but the reality is, they're both very commonly used.

The trick, therefore, is to pick one and stay consistent with it. The one thing you don't want to do is switch from one to the other throughout your text. This shows indecision and poor writing skills.

For the purposes of this article, I'm going to pick 'adviser.'

What's an 'Adviser?'

Okay, so we've clarified the spelling, but what does the word actually mean? If a teacher is someone who teaches, a trainer is someone who trains, and an actor is someone who acts, then an adviser is someone who advises.

To advise someone is to give them your opinion or expert thoughts on what they should do.

'Adviser' is a noun, and 'to advise' is its verb.

The word comes from the Latin videre meaning "to see".

Pronunciation: How to Pronounce 'Adviser' vs 'Advisor'

How do you pronounce 'adviser?' If you're familiar with the International Phonetics Association, this spelling should help:

/ədˈvaɪ.zər/

And this is what it sounds like when you say it out loud:

[ ad-vahy-zer ]

Examples of 'Adviser' in a Sentence

Time to look at some example sentences that use this word. This will help you understand how to use the word in context.

You're my adviser; therefore, please advise me.

I think it would be helpful for you to speak to a financial adviser.

My auntie is basically my love life adviser.

He was the king's most trusted adviser and loyal friend.

We should consider getting a legal adviser on board.

My wife is not only my life partner but also my most trusted adviser.

As scientific adviser, he holds an important role on the project.

I've already begun stage one of my book-writing project, even though my literary adviser recommended I wait.

Concluding Thoughts for 'Adviser' vs 'Advisor'

So there you have it: both terms are correct, and therefore which one you use is entirely up to you. Here are a few points to remember:

• 'Adviser' and 'advisor' are interchangeable
• Choose one spelling and stick with it; stay consistent.

And if you'd like to learn about more confusing words, check out our blog.