What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gloom
Example
The news filled me with gloom. [gloom: noun]
Example
She gloomed at the thought of having to work overtime. [gloom: verb]
shadow
Example
The tree cast a long shadow on the ground. [shadow: noun]
Example
The scandal shadowed his political career. [shadow: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shadow is more commonly used than gloom in everyday language. Shadow is a versatile word that can be used in many contexts, while gloom is less common and has a more specific meaning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gloom and shadow?
Both gloom and shadow are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
