What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gully
Example
The heavy rain caused a gully to form in the hillside. [gully: noun]
Example
We need to dig a gully to prevent flooding in the garden. [gully: verb]
gulch
Example
The hikers followed the gulch as it wound through the mountains. [gulch: noun]
Example
The flash flood carved a deep gulch in the desert landscape. [gulch: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Gully is more commonly used in British English, while gulch is more commonly used in American English. Both words are less common and more specific than other synonyms like 'ravine' or 'valley'.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gully and gulch?
Both gully and gulch are informal words that are more likely to be used in casual conversation or outdoor activities than in formal writing or academic contexts.
