Fog vs Haze

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

	Fog	Haze
Meaning	A thick cloud of tiny water drops in the air that makes things hard to see.	A thick mist in the air that makes it hard to see.
Usage notes	Use 'fog' in both literal and metaphorical senses. In formal writing, avoid using 'fog' figuratively unless context allows.	Use 'haze' when describing poor visibility due to moisture or pollution. It's not typically used in formal writing.

Frequently asked questions: Fog vs Haze

What's the difference between "Fog" and "Haze"?

"Fog" means: A thick cloud of tiny water drops in the air that makes things hard to see. "Haze" means: A thick mist in the air that makes it hard to see.

When should I use "Fog" and "Haze"?

They can all be used in everyday English.