Beggar vs. panhandler: what’s the difference?
The short answer
Beggar is the general word, used everywhere. Panhandler is American English for someone who asks passers-by for money in the street; it sounds less old-fashioned and literary than beggar.
What they have in common
Both beggar and panhandler refer to a person who asks or solicits money, typically in public places, often by holding out a container or performing actions to get the attention and charity of passersby.
Examples
beggar
- The old beggar sat at the corner with his hand outstretched.
- Many beggars in the city rely on the charity of strangers for survival.
panhandler
- The panhandler approached us asking for spare change.
- In some cities, being a panhandler without a permit is illegal.
Which one is more common?
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