What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
glassy
Example
The lake was so calm and still that it looked glassy. [glassy: adjective]
Example
Her eyes were glassy with tears. [glassy: adjective]
Example
The surface of the table was glassy and reflective. [glassy: adjective]
shiny
Example
The diamond ring was shiny and sparkled in the light. [shiny: adjective]
Example
She polished her shoes until they were shiny. [shiny: adjective]
Example
The car was brand new and had a shiny exterior. [shiny: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shiny is more commonly used than glassy in everyday language. Shiny is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while glassy is less common and often used in specific technical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between glassy and shiny?
Both glassy and shiny can be used in formal and informal contexts, but glassy may be more commonly used in technical or scientific writing, while shiny is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts.
