What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bile
Example
The liver produces bile, which helps in the digestion of fats. [bile: noun]
Example
Her skin had a yellowish tint due to the excess bile in her body. [bile: adjective]
gall
Example
The doctor diagnosed her with gallstones, which were causing pain in her abdomen. [gall: noun]
Example
He had the gall to insult her in front of everyone. [gall: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bile is more commonly used in scientific and medical contexts, while gall is used in both medical and everyday language. Bile is a specific term related to digestion, while gall has a broader range of meanings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bile and gall?
Both bile and gall can be used in formal and informal contexts, but bile is more commonly used in scientific and medical discussions, giving it a slightly more formal connotation.