Conjurer vs. Conjuror — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 25, 2024
Conjurer, commonly used in British English, refers to someone who performs magic tricks, while Conjuror, its American variant, holds the same meaning.
Difference Between Conjurer and Conjuror
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Conjurer is a term widely recognized and used in British English to describe a magician or illusionist, particularly one who performs sleight of hand or similar tricks. Whereas, Conjuror is the American English spelling of the same word, used interchangeably to refer to someone skilled in magic arts.
The use of the term conjurer often connotes a sense of old-world, traditional magic performances, invoking images of magicians at children's parties or classic magic shows. On the other hand, conjuror, while holding the same connotation, may appear in more contemporary contexts within American literature and entertainment.
In literature and spoken language, "conjurer" is more likely to appear in British publications and conversations. Whereas "conjuror" finds its place more commonly within American books and discussions, reflecting the spelling preferences of the region.
Both terms are used to describe individuals who are adept at trickery or deceit, not just in performing magic tricks but also metaphorically to describe someone who is particularly cunning or manipulative. However, the spelling variations do not indicate any difference in this broader metaphorical use.
In educational contexts, especially in discussions about English usage and variations, conjurer might be presented as an example of British English spelling and usage. Whereas conjuror would be discussed in the context of American English, highlighting the differences in spelling across English variants.
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Comparison Chart
Preferred Usage
British English
American English
Connotation
Often old-world, traditional magic
Used in both traditional and contemporary contexts
Common Contexts
British literature and conversations
American literature and conversations
Metaphorical Usage
Describes cunning or manipulative behavior
Same as conjurer
Educational Discussion
Example of British English spelling
Example of American English spelling
Compare with Definitions
Conjurer
A performer of magic tricks.
The conjurer amazed the children with his disappearing act.
Conjuror
A magician or illusionist in American English.
The local conjuror was a hit at parties.
Conjurer
Someone who practices slight of hand.
The street conjurer gathered a crowd with his quick hands.
Conjuror
Someone who performs sleight of hand.
The conjuror's coin tricks were a classic.
Conjurer
A metaphor for deceit or trickery.
He was a conjurer in business, always outsmarting his competitors.
Conjuror
A practitioner of magical arts.
The conjuror claimed he could predict the future.
Conjurer
Historically, one believed to summon supernatural forces.
In folklore, the conjurer could call forth spirits.
Conjuror
Used metaphorically to describe a cunning person.
As a business conjuror, she knew how to navigate complex deals.
Conjurer
A person skilled in an art of illusion.
The conjurer's ability to handle cards was unparalleled.
Conjuror
One that performs magic tricks; a magician.
Conjurer
One that performs magic tricks; a magician.
Conjuror
A sorcerer or sorceress.
Conjurer
A sorcerer or sorceress.
Conjuror
Alternative spelling of conjurer
Conjurer
One who conjures, a magician.
Conjuror
One bound by a common oath with others.
Conjurer
One who performs parlor tricks, sleight of hand.
Conjuror
One bound by a common oath with others.
Conjurer
One who conjures; one who calls, entreats, or charges in a solemn manner.
Conjuror
Someone who performs magic tricks to amuse an audience
Conjurer
One who conjectures shrewdly or judges wisely; a man of sagacity.
Conjuror
A witch doctor who practices conjury
Conjurer
A cooking appliance comprising a pot (large or small) with a gridiron wielded beneath it, like a brazier, used for cooking methods such as broiling.
Conjurer
One who conjures; one who calls, entreats, or charges in a solemn manner.
Conjurer
One who practices magic arts; one who pretends to act by the aid super natural power; also, one who performs feats of legerdemain or sleight of hand.
Dealing with witches and with conjurers.
From the account the loser brings,The conjurer knows who stole the things.
Conjurer
One who conjectures shrewdly or judges wisely; a man of sagacity.
Conjurer
Someone who performs magic tricks to amuse an audience
Conjurer
A witch doctor who practices conjury
Common Curiosities
Can both conjurer and conjuror be used to describe someone deceptive?
Yes, both terms can metaphorically describe someone who is deceptive or manipulative.
Are conjurer and conjuror interchangeable in magical contexts?
Yes, in the context of magic and illusion, both terms are interchangeable.
Is there any difference in how conjurer and conjuror are perceived in the public?
The perception generally remains the same, though conjurer might evoke a more traditional or old-fashioned image compared to conjuror.
What is the purpose of conjuror in historical context?
In historical contexts, a conjuror was believed to have the ability to communicate with the supernatural or the dead.
What is the primary difference between a conjurer and a conjuror?
The primary difference is regional spelling; conjurer is preferred in British English, while conjuror is used in American English.
Does the choice between conjurer and conjuror affect the understanding of the text?
No, the choice does not affect the understanding but may hint at the writer's regional background.
Where is the term conjuror more commonly used?
In American books, media, and general discussions.
Is one spelling more correct than the other?
Both spellings, "conjuror" and "conjurer", are correct, but "conjurer" is the more commonly used spelling.
Can conjurer and conjuror both appear in historical texts?
Yes, both can appear, though conjurer might be more common in older British texts.
Where would I likely encounter the term conjurer?
In British publications, educational materials, and conversations.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
