What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shadow
Example
The tree cast a long shadow on the ground. [shadow: noun]
Example
She saw her shadow on the wall and waved at it. [shadow: noun]
Example
The detective shadowed the suspect all day. [shadowed: verb]
silhouette
Example
The sunset created a beautiful silhouette of the mountains. [silhouette: noun]
Example
The artist created a silhouette of the model's profile. [silhouette: noun]
Example
The logo was designed as a simple black silhouette of a bird. [silhouette: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shadow is more commonly used than silhouette in everyday language. Shadow has a wider range of contexts and can be used to describe a dark area created by an object blocking light or a person following another closely. On the other hand, silhouette is more commonly used in art or design contexts to describe a simplified outline of a subject.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between shadow and silhouette?
Both shadow and silhouette are versatile and can be used in various formality levels, allowing them to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
