What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ghost
Example
The old mansion is said to be haunted by the ghost of its former owner. [ghost: noun]
Example
She claimed to have seen a ghostly figure in the hallway. [ghostly: adjective]
phantom
Example
The sound of footsteps in the empty hallway was just a phantom noise. [phantom: adjective]
Example
The idea of success can be a phantom that eludes us if we don't work hard enough. [phantom: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ghost is more commonly used in everyday language than phantom. Ghost is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while phantom is more formal and less common.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ghost and phantom?
Phantom is more formal than ghost and is often used in academic or literary contexts. Ghost is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
