"Guide" vs. "mentor": navigating the nuances of support

Reviewed and edited by

Lloyd Cooper 03/10/2024, 01:06

English.me team member

Guide and mentor. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "guide" and "mentor" refer to individuals who provide advice, support, and direction to help others learn or improve.

What is different?

A "guide" often provides directional or informational support in specific situations or tasks, while a "mentor" typically involves a long-term relationship focused on broader personal or professional development.

Which one is more common?

Examples of usage

Guide

The tour guide showed us around the ancient ruins.
She used the manual to guide her through the installation process.

Mentor

He's been a mentor to me throughout my career.
She mentors young professionals entering the industry.