Adjustor vs. Adjuster: What's the Difference?
By Aimie Carlson & Harlon Moss || Updated on May 22, 2024
Adjustor refers to a device that modifies or regulates, while adjuster is a professional who assesses insurance claims.
Key Differences
Adjustor typically denotes a mechanical device or tool used to make adjustments or changes to something. Adjuster, on the other hand, commonly refers to a professional in the insurance industry. An insurance adjuster evaluates damage or loss claims to determine the amount of compensation an insurance company should pay.
In some contexts, especially in British English, "adjustor" can also refer to the insurance role, creating potential confusion. However, in American English, the distinction is clearer, with "adjuster" being the preferred term for the insurance professional.
Both terms derive from the verb "adjust," which means to change or modify something to achieve a desired fit or condition. However, their usage diverges significantly based on their respective contexts mechanical for adjustor and insurance for adjuster.
Comparison Chart
Definition
A device for making adjustments
A professional evaluating insurance claims
Field
Mechanical, technical
Insurance industry
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Usage
Adjusts objects or devices
Assesses and settles claims
Common Context
Automotive, machinery
Insurance policies and claims
Alternate Use
Rarely in insurance (British)
Not used for mechanical devices
Adjustor and Adjuster Definitions
Adjustor
A tool for making fine adjustments.
The guitar adjustor fixed the instrument's tuning.
Adjuster
An expert in insurance policy details.
The adjuster explained the policy coverage to the client.
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Adjustor
A part that aids in customizing settings.
The adjustor on the bicycle seat improved riding comfort.
Adjuster
A professional assessing losses.
The adjuster determined the compensation for the flooded basement.
Adjustor
A device that modifies settings.
The car seat adjustor helped her find a comfortable position.
Adjuster
A mediator between insurers and claimants.
The adjuster negotiated a fair settlement for the car accident.
Adjustor
A mechanism that regulates functions.
The heat adjustor in the oven ensures even cooking.
Adjuster
A person who investigates claim validity.
The adjuster found discrepancies in the claim report.
Adjustor
A component in machinery for precision changes.
The adjustor in the watch maintained accurate time.
Adjuster
To move or change (something) so as to be in a more effective arrangement or desired condition
Adjust the timing of a car's engine.
Adjust a hearing aid to amplify lower frequencies.
Adjustor
To move or change (something) so as to be in a more effective arrangement or desired condition
Adjust the timing of a car's engine.
Adjust a hearing aid to amplify lower frequencies.
Adjuster
To change so as to be suitable to or conform with something else
Adjusted the schedule to allow for everyone's vacation plans.
Adjusted the old monetary figures to account for inflation.
Adjustor
To change so as to be suitable to or conform with something else
Adjusted the schedule to allow for everyone's vacation plans.
Adjusted the old monetary figures to account for inflation.
Adjuster
In chiropractic medicine, to manipulate (the spine and other body structures) to treat disorders and restore normal function of the nervous system.
Adjustor
In chiropractic medicine, to manipulate (the spine and other body structures) to treat disorders and restore normal function of the nervous system.
Adjuster
To decide how much is to be paid on (an insurance claim).
Adjustor
To decide how much is to be paid on (an insurance claim).
Adjuster
To become adapted or accustomed, as to a new situation
Have you adjusted to working with your new colleagues?.
Adjustor
To become adapted or accustomed, as to a new situation
Have you adjusted to working with your new colleagues?.
Adjuster
One who adjusts, especially for the insurance industry's employment title "loss adjuster" (or "claims adjuster" in the United States).
Adjustor
Alternative form of adjuster
Adjuster
One who, or that which, adjusts.
Adjustor
One who investigates insurance claims or claims for damages and recommends an effective settlement
Adjuster
An insurance agent who examines claims against personal or property damage insurance policies and makes estimates and recommendations regarding the amount which should be paid to the policyholder.
Adjuster
One who investigates insurance claims or claims for damages and recommends an effective settlement
Adjuster
An insurance claim evaluator.
The adjuster inspected the damage before approving the claim.
FAQs
Can "adjustor" refer to an insurance role?
In British English, "adjustor" can sometimes refer to an insurance role, but in American English, "adjuster" is the preferred term.
Where is an adjustor commonly used?
Adjustors are commonly used in mechanical and technical fields, such as automotive or machinery adjustments.
What does an adjuster do?
An adjuster evaluates and settles insurance claims, determining the amount of compensation for losses or damages.
Can a mechanical device be called an adjuster?
No, mechanical devices are not called adjusters; they are referred to as adjustors.
What qualifications are required to be an adjuster?
An adjuster typically needs a background in insurance, relevant certifications, and experience in claims evaluation.
Do adjustors require maintenance?
Yes, adjustors often require regular maintenance to ensure they function correctly and provide accurate adjustments.
Are adjustors and adjusters interchangeable terms?
No, adjustors and adjusters are not interchangeable. Adjustors are devices, while adjusters are professionals in the insurance industry.
Are adjustors used in everyday items?
Yes, adjustors are used in everyday items like car seats, bicycles, and household appliances.
What is an adjustor?
An adjustor is a device or tool used to make precise adjustments or modifications in various settings.
What skills does an adjuster need?
An adjuster needs strong analytical skills, knowledge of insurance policies, and effective negotiation abilities.
How does an adjuster determine compensation?
An adjuster determines compensation by assessing the extent of damage or loss and reviewing the insurance policy terms.
What are common types of adjustors?
Common types of adjustors include seat adjustors, tuning adjustors, and temperature adjustors.
Are there certifications for adjustors?
Certifications for adjustors are not common, as they are typically mechanical components rather than professions.
How does an adjustor work?
An adjustor works by enabling precise modifications to settings, such as adjusting the position of a car seat or tuning a guitar.
Is "adjustor" commonly used in American English?
"Adjustor" is less commonly used in American English compared to "adjuster" for the insurance professional role.
What industries rely heavily on adjusters?
The insurance industry relies heavily on adjusters for evaluating and settling claims.
Do adjusters work independently or for companies?
Adjusters can work independently or for insurance companies, depending on their employment status.
What is the role of an adjuster in a natural disaster?
An adjuster assesses damage caused by natural disasters to determine the insurance payout for affected policyholders.
Can adjustors be found in electronic devices?
Yes, adjustors can be found in electronic devices for fine-tuning settings and functions.
How do adjusters handle disputes?
Adjusters handle disputes by negotiating with policyholders and using their expertise to reach fair settlements.
About Author
Written by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
Co-written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
