What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
downy
Example
The duckling's downy feathers were so soft to the touch. [downy: adjective]
Example
The peach had a downy skin that was pleasant to eat. [downy: adjective]
fuzzy
Example
The kiwi fruit had a fuzzy skin that was slightly rough to the touch. [fuzzy: adjective]
Example
The radio signal was fuzzy and hard to hear clearly. [fuzzy: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fuzzy is more commonly used than downy in everyday language. Fuzzy is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while downy is less common and is usually reserved for specific contexts involving natural objects.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between downy and fuzzy?
Both downy and fuzzy are relatively informal words, but downy may be considered slightly more formal due to its association with natural objects like feathers or flowers.