Ambiance vs Ambience | Difference & Meaning

The most common spelling of the noun ambience is with an “e,” but you can also spell it with an “a” (i.e., ambiance). The “ambience”/“ambiance” of a place is the “feeling” it gives you when you are there.

In American English, there are two ways of pronouncing the word “ambience”/”ambiance” ( or ). Either spelling can be pronounced in either way. In British English, you pronounce it .

Ambience or ambiance in a sentence examples
The restaurant’s rustic decor and soft lighting creates a very cozy ambience/ambiance.

I love the lively ambience/ambiance of a big city.

Ambience definition

The ambience of a place is the feeling you experience when you are there. “Ambience” is a noun that often combines with the adjectives “comfortable,” “casual,” and “bright” as well as the verbs “create” and “enjoy.” You can also use the word “ambience” to describe the character of works of art such as films, books, or plays.

Ambience in a sentence examples
The hotel has an elegant yet comfortable ambience.

A muted color palette creates a haunting ambience that enhances the film’s sense of horror.

Ambiance definition

Ambiance (spelled with an “a”) is an alternative spelling of the word “ambience.” It is more common to spell it with an “e.” The “ambiance” of physical space is the feeling that it gives you when you are in it.

Ambiance in a sentence examples
The bright ambiance contrasts with the restaurant’s menu of traditional, hearty dishes.

It’s worth visiting the museum just to enjoy the historic ambiance of the building.

Ambient definition

The adjective ambient means “relating to the surrounding area.” The “ambient temperature,” for instance, is the temperature of the air in a particular place or space, and “ambient lighting” illuminates an entire space, rather than a particular spot or feature.

Ambient in a sentence examples
You can reduce the ambient humidity in a room by airing it out regularly or using a dehumidifier.

This refrigerator is not designed to work in ambient temperatures below 44°F.

Frequently asked questions about ambiance vs ambience

What is a synonym for ambience?

Synonyms for the noun ambience include:

  • Atmosphere
  • Mood
  • Vibe
  • Feeling
  • Character

You can spell this word ambience or ambiance, but spelling it with an “e” is much more common.

Have you tried QuillBot’s free Paraphraser? You can use it to find a synonym for “ambience” that fits your specific context.

What is a synonym for ambiance?

Synonyms for the noun ambiance include:

  • Mood
  • Atmosphere
  • Character
  • Feeling
  • Vibe

You can spell this word ambiance or ambience, but spelling it with an “e” is much more common.

Why not use QuillBot’s free Paraphraser to find a synonym for “ambiance” that fits your specific context?

Is this article helpful?
Tom Challenger, BA

Tom holds a teaching diploma and is an experienced English language teacher, teacher trainer, and translator. He has taught university courses and worked as a teacher trainer on Cambridge CELTA courses.