What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dulls
Example
The medication dulls the pain in my knee. [dulls: verb]
Example
The lecture was so boring that it dulled my enthusiasm for the subject. [dulled: past tense]
Example
The constant use of the tablecloth has dulled its color. [dulled: past participle]
dim
Example
The sun began to set, and the light dimmed. [dimmed: past tense]
Example
I have a dim memory of that event from my childhood. [dim: adjective]
Example
His enthusiasm for the project dimmed after facing several setbacks. [dimmed: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dim is more commonly used than dulls in everyday language. Dim is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while dulls is less common and has a more specific usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dulls and dim?
Both dulls and dim are relatively informal words and can be used in casual conversations or writing.
