What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unsightly
Example
The abandoned building was an unsightly sight. [unsightly: adjective]
Example
The graffiti on the wall made the neighborhood look unsightly. [unsightly: adjective]
ugly
Example
The old couch was so ugly that no one wanted to sit on it. [ugly: adjective]
Example
The pollution in the river made the water look ugly. [ugly: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ugly is more commonly used than unsightly in everyday language. Ugly is a more versatile term that can be used in various contexts and levels of formality, while unsightly is less common and more formal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between unsightly and ugly?
Unsightly is a more formal term that is less commonly used in everyday language, while ugly is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
