Difference Between Grey and Gray: A Simple Guide

Difference Between “Grey” and “Gray”

Both “grey” and “gray” are words that describe a color. This color is between black and white. But why are there two different spellings for the same word?

History of the Words

The word “grey” is used in British English. In the United Kingdom and other countries that use British English, people write “grey”.

The word “gray” is used in American English. In the United States and other countries that use American English, people write “gray”.

How to Use Them

Both words mean the same color. You use them when you describe something that is not totally black and not totally white.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Think of “gry” in America, both have “a” in them. Think of “gry” in British, both have “e” in them.

Example Sentences

Using “Grey”:

• The cat is grey.
• Her eyes are grey like the clouds.
• He wore a grey sweater.
• The sky turned grey before it rained.
• That grey car is very fast.

Using “Gray”:

• The dog has gray fur.
• I painted my room gray.
• They bought a gray sofa for the living room.
• The gray suit looked very nice on him.
• Today is a gray day with no sunshine.

Summary

Remember, “grey” is used in British English, while “gray” is used in American English. They both describe the same color. If you’re in a place where British English is used, write “grey”. If you’re in a place where American English is used, write “gray”. Both are correct but used in different English-speaking places.