The difference between lite and light is lite can be a noun or an adjective, while light can be a noun, a verb, and an adjective. While light typically means energy that enables vision or “not heavy,” lite is commonly used as part of a brand name to describe a low-calorie or low-fat version of something or a simpler-than-normal version of a product.
Moreover, lite is an informal version of light, meaning “containing less of an ingredient” or “being less complex.” Since it’s an informal word, we shouldn’t use lite instead of light in formal writing.
When to Use Lite
We use lite as a noun or adjective to describe a product with a low calorie or low-fat version, commonly seen as part of a brand name, as in Yogurt Lite. Furthermore, lite can mean a simpler-than-normal version of something—for example, Facebook Lite, Instagram Lite, etc. Hence, we can say that we want the lite version of something.
As an informal version of light, lite is used in more casual and marketing-related contexts. These days, it has become more common as a word for non-complex or containing less of something.
Lite as a Noun
She’s waiting for the Anderson Erickson Yo Lite to be restocked as she’s conscious of her health.
Some people prefer the Facebook Lite app since it saves space on our phones.
I use Instagram Lite when I’m using my mobile data outside.
Lite as an Adjective
Kendra prefers a lite beer to a regular one.
Can you get me a lite version of the butter?
I always order a lite soda whenever I’m in a restaurant.
When to Use Light
We use light as a noun, a verb, and an adjective. As a noun, it’s used as a source of illumination or something that makes vision possible, whether a natural one (like the sun) or an artificial one (like a lamp). As a verb, it means to give brightness to something. As an adjective, it has several meanings, but generally, something light means not heavy.
Light as a Noun
The father who’s driving is impatiently waiting for the red light to turn green.
In the past, people used a torch’s light in dark places.
A flash of light is what we all need to see what’s ahead in our direction.
Light as a Verb
As soon as the ceremony starts, they start to light the candles.
While on a short break, I asked someone to light my cigarette.
Who said it’s okay to light the fire without their permission?
Light as an Adjective
During summer, light clothes are more comfortable than heavy ones.
Our family likes light food such as salad and sandwiches.
The doctor has advised Shannon to take regular light exercise.
Lite vs. Light: What’s the Difference?
There’s a difference between lite and light, not only in spelling and meanings. Although they may have related meanings, lite is commonly used in food or drinks with lower calorie or sugar, while light typically refers to a source of illumination (noun) or not heavy (adjective).
References:
Cambridge Dictionary. (n.d.) Light. In https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/ dictionary. Retrieved from https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/light
Cambridge Dictionary. (n.d.) Lite. In https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/ dictionary. Retrieved from https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/lite
Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English Online. (n.d.). Light. In https://www.ldoceonline.com/ dictionary. Retrieved from https://www.ldoceonline.com/dictionary/light
Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English Online. (n.d.). Lite. In https://www.ldoceonline.com/ dictionary. Retrieved from https://www.ldoceonline.com/dictionary/lite
Merriam-Webster. (n.d.). Light. In Merriam-Webster.com dictionary. Retrieved from https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/light
Merriam-Webster. (n.d.).Lite. In Merriam-Webster.com dictionary. Retrieved from https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lite
