The Difference between Half-brother and Stepbrother

If you think your half-brother is your stepbrother, pay rapt attention. These words are often used interchangeably, especially by second learners of English. But I am happy because this illustrative article will put an end to the misuse of these words.

Your half-brother is not your stepbrother. The son of either your biological father or mother is your half-brother, not your stepbrother.

Your stepbrother is not your parents’ son. If, for example, your father gets married to another woman who already has a son outside, that son is your stepbrother, not your half-brother.

In a nutshell, you and your half-brother are related by blood whereas you and your stepbrother are related by marriage.