What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
abyss
Example
The diver was afraid of the abyss below him. [abyss: noun]
Example
The difference in their opinions created an abyss between them. [abyss: metaphorical]
gulf
Example
The Gulf of Mexico is a popular tourist destination. [gulf: noun]
Example
There is a gulf between the rich and the poor in this country. [gulf: metaphorical]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Gulf is more commonly used than abyss in everyday language. Gulf is a versatile word that can be used in a variety of contexts, while abyss is less common and tends to be used in more specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between abyss and gulf?
Both abyss and gulf are formal words that are appropriate for use in academic or professional writing. However, gulf may be slightly more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels.
