What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
intangible
Example
Happiness is an intangible feeling that cannot be measured. [intangible: adjective]
Example
The company's reputation is an intangible asset that adds value to the business. [intangible: noun]
ethereal
Example
The ethereal beauty of the sunset took our breath away. [ethereal: adjective]
Example
The music had an ethereal quality that transported us to another realm. [ethereal: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Intangible is more commonly used than ethereal in everyday language, especially in business or legal contexts. Ethereal is less common and is often used in artistic or poetic contexts to describe delicate or spiritual qualities.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between intangible and ethereal?
Intangible is typically associated with a formal and technical tone, while ethereal is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
