What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
diaphany
Example
The diaphanous curtains fluttered in the breeze. [diaphanous: adjective]
Example
The dancer's movements were graceful and diaphanous, like a fairy. [diaphanous: adjective]
sheer
Example
The sheer curtains let in a lot of light. [sheer: adjective]
Example
The hiker had to climb up a sheer cliff to reach the summit. [sheer: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sheer is more commonly used than diaphany in everyday language. Sheer is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while diaphany is less common and has a more specific meaning.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between diaphany and sheer?
Both diaphany and sheer can be used in formal and informal contexts, but diaphany may have a more poetic or literary tone, while sheer is more practical and functional.
