Chapter 4

The Language of Color

IN THIS CHAPTER

Bullet Defining values and hues

Bullet Understanding the difference between tints, tones, and shades

Bullet Developing your color vocabulary

Bullet Exploring fluorescents and metallics

We humans are an extraordinarily language-oriented bunch. When we have words for something, it becomes more tangible, more of a reality in our lives. The same is true for color perception, a vast and elusive phenomenon. Language can help us identify and apply color in both our creative work and in everyday life.

In this chapter, I define color terms that will help you think and communicate about color more effectively. You discover the differences between values and hues, and how white, gray and black are mixed with hues to create tints, tones, and shades. You learn about the different ways in which people talk about color and get tips for developing your color vocabulary. Finally, you look at two special types of color, fluorescent colors and metallics.

Talking about Color with the Right Words

We all have our own way of talking about color. We have color words and phrases that ...

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