What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
haze
Example
The mountains were shrouded in a thick haze, making it difficult to see the view. [haze: noun]
Example
She gazed out the window, lost in a haze of memories. [haze: noun]
Example
The sun cast a warm haze over the landscape, creating a beautiful golden glow. [haze: noun]
smog
Example
The city was covered in a thick blanket of smog, making it difficult to breathe. [smog: noun]
Example
The factory emitted a thick plume of smog into the air. [smog: noun]
Example
The car exhaust created a cloud of smog that hung over the highway. [smog: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Smog is more commonly used than haze in everyday language, as it is a more severe and well-known form of air pollution. Haze is less common and often associated with natural phenomena, such as humidity or wildfires.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between haze and smog?
Both haze and smog are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.