The Color Theory Understanding Hue, Tint, Tone and Shade

We often hear people say things like, 'What a beautiful blue hue.'  or 'What shade of green do you like?'  or 'Which tone do you prefer?' or 'That tint is too light.'

Have you ever wondered what exactly they mean by these color terms? Let me clarify the difference between them. Once you understand the difference, you'll never be unsure again. You'll also be able to describe or mix a color much more easily.


To begin, most people use the terms  Hue and Color interchangeably. It's very common, even with artists and designers to assume the two mean the same thing.


Generally speaking they sort of do, but technically they don't.

The comment above sounds like one of those mind-bending riddles. In fact, the difference between them is actually very simple.