What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ghostly
Example
The old mansion had a ghostly atmosphere that made me shiver. [ghostly: adjective]
Example
The ghostly figure appeared out of nowhere and disappeared just as quickly. [ghostly: adverb]
eerie
Example
The abandoned hospital was an eerie place to explore. [eerie: adjective]
Example
The howling wind created an eerie sound that echoed through the empty streets. [eerie: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Eerie is more commonly used than ghostly in everyday language. Eerie is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while ghostly is less common and refers specifically to things related to ghosts or spirits.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ghostly and eerie?
Both ghostly and eerie are typically associated with an informal or casual tone, although they can also be used in more formal contexts such as literature or film reviews.
