What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dreary
Example
The weather was dreary and overcast all day. [dreary: adjective]
Example
I find doing laundry to be such a dreary task. [dreary: adjective]
Example
The hospital room was dreary and quiet, making me feel uneasy. [dreary: adjective]
gloomy
Example
The sky was gloomy and gray, signaling an impending storm. [gloomy: adjective]
Example
He had a gloomy outlook on life, always expecting the worst. [gloomy: adjective]
Example
The funeral was held in a gloomy chapel, adding to the somber mood. [gloomy: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Gloomy is more commonly used than dreary in everyday language. Gloomy is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while dreary is less common and refers to a specific type of negative feeling or atmosphere.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dreary and gloomy?
Both dreary and gloomy are typically associated with an informal tone, but can be used in formal contexts as well.
