What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fay
Example
The fay danced in the moonlight, their wings shimmering in the night sky. [fay: noun]
Example
She had a fay quality about her, as if she belonged to another realm. [fay: adjective]
Example
The garden was filled with fays and other magical creatures. [fays: plural noun]
fairy
Example
The fairy granted the young girl three wishes, but warned her to use them wisely. [fairy: noun]
Example
The garden was like a fairy tale come to life, with its colorful flowers and sparkling fountains. [fairy: adjective]
Example
The fairy magic was strong in the forest, and many travelers were wary of venturing too far. [fairy: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fairy is much more commonly used than fay in everyday language, and is more versatile in its usage.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between fay and fairy?
Neither fay nor fairy are particularly formal or informal, but fairy is more commonly used in everyday language and is therefore more likely to be used in informal contexts.
