What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
burnisher
Example
The craftsman used a burnisher to give the metal a smooth and shiny finish. [burnisher: noun]
Example
She spent hours burnishing the wooden table until it gleamed. [burnishing: gerund or present participle]
shiner
Example
The sun reflected off the water, creating a beautiful shiner on the lake. [shiner: noun]
Example
He got into a fight and ended up with a shiner on his left eye. [shiner: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shiner is more commonly used than burnisher in everyday language. Shiner has a broader range of meanings and can be used in various contexts, while burnisher is more specific to the field of polishing or finishing surfaces.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between burnisher and shiner?
Both burnisher and shiner are relatively formal words. However, burnisher may be more commonly used in technical or specialized contexts, while shiner can be used in both formal and informal situations.
