Synonyms in Detail: sundown and sunset Usage & Differences

What context can I use each word in?

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

sundown

Example

We need to hurry up before sundown. [sundown: noun]

Example

The animals come out to hunt at sundown. [sundown: noun]

sunset

Example

The sunset was breathtakingly beautiful. [sunset: noun]

Example

We watched the sunset from the beach. [sunset: noun]

Good things to know

Which word is more common?

Sunset is more commonly used than sundown in everyday language.

What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sundown and sunset?

Sundown is more formal than sunset, making it more appropriate for use in formal contexts.