Pinkish vs. Pinky: What's the Difference?
By Harlon Moss & Janet White || Updated on May 22, 2024
Pinkish describes a color slightly resembling pink, while pinky refers to the little finger on a hand.
Key Differences
Pinkish is an adjective used to describe something that has a slight tint of pink. It often indicates that the object is not fully pink but has pinkish hues, adding a subtle variation to the color. Pinky, on the other hand, is a noun referring to the smallest finger on the human hand. It is also known as the little finger and is typically found on the outermost edge of the hand. The term pinky is commonly used in everyday conversation to specify this particular digit, especially in contexts involving fine motor skills or gestures.
Pinkish can be used to describe various items, such as clothes, flowers, or even sunsets, indicating a slight pink shade. Conversely, pinky is specific to anatomy, often mentioned in medical, educational, or casual settings when discussing finger-related topics.
While pinkish is a descriptive term focusing on color variation, pinky is more anatomical, focusing on the body part. This distinction highlights the different contexts in which each term is appropriately used.
Comparison Chart
Part of Speech
Adjective
Noun
Meaning
Slightly resembling pink
Little finger on the hand
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Usage
Describing color shades
Referring to a specific body part
Context
Colors, descriptions
Anatomy, casual conversation
Example Sentence
The dress was a pinkish hue.
She wore a ring on her pinky.
Pinkish and Pinky Definitions
Pinkish
A color between pink and another shade.
The paint was more pinkish than red.
Pinky
The little finger, often the weakest.
He wore his new ring on his pinky.
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Pinkish
Having a slight tint of pink.
The sky turned a pinkish color at dusk.
Pinky
The outermost finger.
She gestured with her pinky extended.
Pinkish
Somewhat resembling pink in hue.
Her cheeks had a pinkish glow.
Pinky
The fifth digit of the hand.
The magician wiggled his pinky as part of the trick.
Pinkish
Slightly pink; partially pink.
His shirt had a pinkish tone.
Pinky
The smallest finger on the hand.
She injured her pinky while playing basketball.
Pinkish
Not completely pink but tinged with pink.
The flowers were pinkish in the morning light.
Pinky
The little finger.
Pinkish
Somewhat pink.
Pinky
Variant of pinkie1.
Pinkish
Somewhat pink.
Pinky
Variant of pink3.
Pinkish
Somewhat pink.
Pinky
A small sailing vessel with a sharply narrowed stern and an overhanging transom.
Pinkish
Of a light shade of red
Pinky
Pinkish.
Pinky
Winking
Pinky
Methylated spirits mixed with red wine or Condy's crystals.
Pinky
A baby mouse, especially when used as food for a snake, etc.
Pinky
A white person.
Pinky
The Australasian snapper or pink snapper (Chrysophrys auratus).
Pinky
(historical) A kind of fishing schooner of New England.
Pinky
The smallest finger or toe of a hand or foot.
Pinky
See 1st Pink.
Pinky
The finger farthest from the thumb
Pinky
A term for the little finger, used in casual contexts.
He promised with a pinky swear.
FAQs
Can pinkish describe people?
Yes, pinkish can describe skin tones, e.g., a pinkish complexion.
What part of speech is pinkish?
Pinkish is an adjective.
Is pinky a formal term?
Pinky is informal; the formal term is little finger.
What part of speech is pinky?
Pinky is a noun.
How do you use pinky in a sentence?
e.g., She wore a ring on her pinky.
What does pinkish mean?
Pinkish means having a slight tint of pink.
How do you use pinkish in a sentence?
e.g., The sunset had a pinkish hue.
Is pinkish a common word?
Yes, it's common in describing colors.
Can something be pinkish and not pink?
Yes, it means it has a slight tint of pink, not fully pink.
Can pinkish describe emotions?
No, pinkish is used for colors, not emotions.
Are there variations of the word pinkish?
No, pinkish is the primary form used.
Can pinky be used in gestures?
Yes, like in a pinky promise.
Is pinky used in medical terms?
Yes, but 'little finger' is more common in medical contexts.
Can pinkish be used in fashion?
Yes, to describe clothing colors.
What’s another term for pinky?
Little finger.
Is pinkish a subjective term?
Yes, it can vary based on perception.
Is pinky a child's term?
Pinky is often used by children but understood by all ages.
Is pinky universally understood?
Yes, it’s commonly understood across English-speaking regions.
Are there variations of the word pinky?
No, pinky is the standard term.
What’s another word for pinkish?
Another term could be slightly pink.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Co-written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.