Gray or Grey | Difference & Example Sentences
Gray and grey are two different spellings of the same word, used to refer to the color between white and black. It can be used as a noun to refer to the color, an adjective to describe something as being that color, and as a verb to refer to the act of becoming that color.
The spelling tends to vary based on whether you use US or UK English:
- In US English, “gray” is standard.
- In UK English, “grey” is more common.
It was supposed to be sunny today, but the sky is gray/grey.
Cooper’s beard is black with patches of gray/grey.
In the last few months, Peter’s hair has grayed/greyed.
Graying or greying
Graying/greying is the present participle of the verb gray/grey meaning “to become gray/grey.”
The same spelling distinction applies:
- In US English, “graying” is the standard.
- In UK English, “greying” is used.
Jaiden is not going bald, but he’s graying/greying.
Grey area or gray area
Gray/grey area is a phrase used to describe an unclear situation that is open to interpretation or that has no clear set of rules. It is often used to refer to legal or moral questions.
- In US English, “gray area” is the standard.
- In UK English, “grey area” is used.
Paul wanted to sublet his apartment but found that it was a bit of a gray area/grey area.
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Ryan, E. (2023, March 14). Gray or Grey | Difference & Example Sentences. Scribbr. Retrieved November 28, 2023, from https://www.scribbr.com/us-vs-uk/gray-or-grey/
