What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mouldy
Example
I had to throw away the bread because it was mouldy. [mouldy: adjective]
Example
The old books in the attic were covered in mouldy dust. [mouldy: adjective]
Example
The basement smelled mouldy and damp. [mouldy: adverb]
musty
Example
The old clothes in the closet had a musty smell. [musty: adjective]
Example
The abandoned house had a musty and eerie atmosphere. [musty: adjective]
Example
The antique shop had a musty charm that reminded me of my grandmother's house. [musty: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Musty is more commonly used than mouldy in everyday language. Musty is a more versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while mouldy is more specific and limited to describing the growth of mould or fungus.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mouldy and musty?
Both mouldy and musty are informal words that are suitable for casual or conversational contexts. However, mouldy may be more associated with technical or scientific language when referring to the growth of mould or fungus.
