When a person files a legal complaint against another, they become a plaintiff before the court. While the term plaintiff is commonly used in the legal field, there are other words that can be used as a synonym. These include complainant, claimant, petitioner, and suitor. Each term carries a slightly different connotation but ultimately refers to the individual seeking relief from the court. It is important for legal professionals to be aware of the synonyms to use the proper terminology in court documents and proceedings. Choosing the appropriate word can also convey the tone and urgency of the case.