What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dusk
Example
We arrived at the park at dusk and watched the stars come out. [dusk: noun]
Example
The sky was turning orange and pink as dusk approached. [dusk: verb]
sunset
Example
The sunset over the ocean was breathtaking. [sunset: noun]
Example
We watched the sun setting behind the mountains. [sunset: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sunset is more commonly used in everyday language and is associated with beauty and romance, while dusk is less common and has a more melancholic or eerie connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dusk and sunset?
Both dusk and sunset can be used in formal and informal contexts, but sunset is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations.