What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
icteric
Example
The patient's icteric skin indicated a possible liver problem. [icteric: adjective]
Example
The doctor ordered a blood test to check for icteric conditions. [icteric: noun]
sallow
Example
She looked sallow and tired after the long flight. [sallow: adjective]
Example
His sallow complexion made him look older than his age. [sallow: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sallow is a more commonly used word than icteric in everyday language. While icteric is a technical term used primarily in medical contexts, sallow is a more versatile word that can be used to describe a range of physical appearances.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between icteric and sallow?
Icteric is a technical term used primarily in medical contexts and is therefore more formal than sallow. Sallow is a more common word used in everyday language and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
