"At sunset" vs "at dusk"

Question

"At sunset" vs "at dusk"

Both 'at dusk' and 'at sunset' are correct phrases, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'At dusk' refers to the period of time just after sunset when it is still somewhat light outside, while 'at sunset' specifically refers to the moment when the sun disappears below the horizon.

Last Updated: March 25, 2024

Use 'at sunset' to refer to the specific moment when the sun disappears below the horizon.

Examples:

We watched the colors of the sky change at sunset.
The beach is beautiful at sunset.

Alternatives:

as the sun sets
as the sun goes down
as night falls
in the evening
in the twilight

Use 'at dusk' to refer to the time of day just after the sun has set when it is still somewhat light outside.

Examples:

The birds start chirping at dusk.
We decided to take a walk at dusk.

Alternatives:

in the evening
in the twilight
at twilight
at nightfall
as night falls

Answer 1

At sunset

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

at dusk

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"At sunset" vs "at dusk"

At sunset

at dusk

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