What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
brightness
Example
The brightness of the sun made it difficult to see.
Example
She turned up the brightness on her phone screen to read the text more clearly.
shine
Example
The stars were shining brightly in the night sky.
Example
Her shoes had a beautiful shine after she polished them.
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Brightness is more commonly used than shine in everyday language. Brightness is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts related to light and color, while shine is more specific and often used to describe the reflective quality of objects or surfaces.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between brightness and shine?
Both brightness and shine can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, brightness is generally considered more formal when used to describe the level of light or illumination, while shine can be used in a more casual or figurative manner.
