High vs. Tall

High vs. Tall

We use high for mountains and for things which are a long way above the ground:

e.g. There are some high mountains in the north of the country.

e.g. The light switch is too high for a child to use.

Warning:

We don’t use high when we talk about people. We use tall : Sally is very tall and slim – she could get a job as a model!
Not: Sally is very high and slim …

Tall people often get backache.

We use tall to describe things which are high and thin in their shape (e.g. buildings, trees):

e.g. The tall trees by the river give welcome shade on hot days.

e.g. You know that very tall , white building just where the motorway begins – that’s where I work.