What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bluish
Example
The sky turned a bluish hue as the sun began to set. [bluish: adjective]
Example
Her eyes had a bluish tinge, making them look unique. [bluish: adjective]
blue
Example
She painted her room in a beautiful shade of blue. [blue: adjective]
Example
He felt a wave of sadness wash over him, making him feel blue. [blue: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Blue is a more commonly used word compared to bluish. Blue is a versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts, while bluish is more specific and used in situations where a slight variation of blue is being described.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bluish and blue?
Both bluish and blue can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, blue is more commonly used and considered more neutral in terms of formality.