What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
glistering
Example
The glistering diamonds on her necklace caught everyone's attention. [glistering: adjective]
Example
The sun was glistering on the surface of the water, making it look like a sea of diamonds. [glistering: present participle]
glistening
Example
The glistening raindrops on the leaves made the garden look magical. [glistening: present participle]
Example
The freshly waxed car was glistening in the sunlight. [glistening: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Glistening is more commonly used than glistering in everyday language. Glistening is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while glistering is less common and is often used in more formal or literary contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between glistering and glistening?
Glistering is typically associated with a more formal or literary tone, while glistening is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
