What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mellow
Example
After a long day at work, I like to listen to some mellow music to unwind. [mellow: adjective]
Example
The sunset cast a mellow glow over the beach. [mellow: noun]
smooth
Example
The baby's skin was so smooth and soft. [smooth: adjective]
Example
The car ride was so smooth that I fell asleep. [smooth: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Smooth is more commonly used than mellow in everyday language. Smooth is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while mellow is less common and has more specific connotations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mellow and smooth?
Both mellow and smooth can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but smooth is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both casual and formal settings.