What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shimmer
Example
The moonlight shimmered on the surface of the lake. [shimmered: past tense]
Example
Her dress shimmered in the candlelight, making her look like a princess. [shimmered: verb]
sparkle
Example
The diamond ring sparkled in the sunlight. [sparkled: past tense]
Example
Her eyes sparkled with excitement when she saw the surprise party. [sparkled: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sparkle is more commonly used than shimmer in everyday language. Sparkle is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while shimmer is less common and refers to a more specific type of light and movement.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between shimmer and sparkle?
Both shimmer and sparkle can be used in formal and informal contexts, but shimmer is often associated with a more poetic or literary tone, while sparkle is more commonly used in everyday language.
