What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
musty
Example
The basement had a musty smell that made me sneeze. [musty: adjective]
Example
I found some old books in the attic that had a musty odor. [musty: adjective]
moldy
Example
The bread was moldy, so I threw it away. [moldy: adjective]
Example
The bathroom tiles were moldy and needed to be cleaned. [moldy: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Moldy is more commonly used than musty in everyday language, as it is a more specific and severe condition. Musty is less common but still useful for describing a stale or damp smell in a room or building.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between musty and moldy?
Both musty and moldy are informal words that can be used in casual conversation or writing. However, moldy may be more commonly used in technical or scientific contexts related to mold remediation or health hazards.
