What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tinge
Example
The sky had a tinge of pink as the sun set. [tinge: noun]
Example
Her voice had a tinge of sadness when she spoke about her past. [tinge: noun]
Example
His words were tinged with sarcasm. [tinged: verb]
trace
Example
There was a trace of mud on his shoes. [trace: noun]
Example
She could see the trace of a smile on his face. [trace: noun]
Example
The artist traced the outline of the model's face. [traced: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Trace is more commonly used than tinge in everyday language. Trace is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while tinge is less common and has a more specific meaning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tinge and trace?
Both tinge and trace are relatively formal words, but trace can be used in more informal contexts as well.
