What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nacreous
Example
The nacreous surface of the pearl shimmered in the light. [nacreous: adjective]
Example
The sky was filled with nacreous clouds that reflected the colors of the sunset. [nacreous: adjective]
lustrous
Example
Her lustrous hair shone in the sun. [lustrous: adjective]
Example
The diamond had a lustrous sparkle that caught his attention. [lustrous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lustrous is more commonly used than nacreous in everyday language. Lustrous is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while nacreous is less common and has a more specific usage related to organic materials.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between nacreous and lustrous?
Both nacreous and lustrous have a formal tone due to their elegant and sophisticated connotations. However, nacreous may be perceived as more poetic and imaginative, while lustrous is more practical and straightforward.
