What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gamut
Example
The store carries the gamut of products, from clothing to electronics. [gamut: noun]
Example
The emotions she experienced ran the gamut from joy to sadness. [ran the gamut: verb phrase]
spectrum
Example
The rainbow displays a spectrum of colors. [spectrum: noun]
Example
Political views in this country span the entire spectrum from left to right. [spectrum: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spectrum is more commonly used than gamut in everyday language. Spectrum is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while gamut is less common and refers to a complete range or extent of something.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gamut and spectrum?
Both gamut and spectrum are formal words that are appropriate for use in academic or professional settings.
