What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
aglow
Example
The sky was aglow with the colors of the sunset. [aglow: adjective]
Example
She was aglow with happiness after receiving the good news. [aglow: adverb]
gleaming
Example
The car was gleaming after being washed and waxed. [gleaming: verb]
Example
Her eyes were gleaming with excitement as she opened the present. [gleaming: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Gleaming is more commonly used than aglow in everyday language. Gleaming is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while aglow is less common and has a more poetic connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between aglow and gleaming?
Both aglow and gleaming are considered formal words and may not be used in casual conversations. However, gleaming is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.