What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fog
Example
The fog was so thick that I could barely see the road ahead. [fog: noun]
Example
The morning fog made everything look mystical and beautiful. [fog: adjective]
smog
Example
The city was covered in smog, making it difficult to breathe. [smog: noun]
Example
The smoggy air made my eyes burn and my throat sore. [smoggy: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fog is more commonly used than smog in everyday language, as it is a natural weather phenomenon that occurs more frequently. Smog is a term that is more commonly used in urban areas with high levels of air pollution.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fog and smog?
Both fog and smog can be used in formal and informal contexts, but smog may be more commonly used in scientific or technical writing due to its association with air pollution and environmental issues.
