What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
eerie
Example
The abandoned house had an eerie silence that made me shiver. [eerie: adjective]
Example
The foggy night created an eerie atmosphere that gave me goosebumps. [eerie: noun]
creepy
Example
The old man's creepy smile made me want to leave the room. [creepy: adjective]
Example
The dark alley looked creepy, so I decided to take another route. [creepy: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Creepy is more commonly used than eerie in everyday language. Creepy is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while eerie is less common and refers to a specific type of unsettling feeling.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between eerie and creepy?
Eerie is more formal and literary than creepy, making it suitable for use in formal writing or speech. Creepy is more colloquial and informal, making it better suited for casual conversations or informal writing.
