What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
haggard
Example
After working long hours for days, she looked haggard and drained. [haggard: adjective]
Example
His haggard face showed the signs of sleepless nights and worry. [haggard: adjective]
Example
The haggard horse struggled to keep up with the rest of the herd. [haggard: adjective]
gaunt
Example
The prisoner looked gaunt and weak after weeks of starvation. [gaunt: adjective]
Example
Her gaunt face revealed the effects of her illness and weight loss. [gaunt: adjective]
Example
The gaunt dog wandered the streets in search of food. [gaunt: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Gaunt is less common than haggard in everyday language. Haggard is more versatile and covers a wider range of contexts, while gaunt is more specific and often used in situations where malnutrition or starvation is involved.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between haggard and gaunt?
Both haggard and gaunt are considered formal words and are more likely to be used in written language or formal settings rather than casual conversation.
