ashen
Describes a person's face or complexion that has lost its color due to shock, fear, or illness, giving it a very light, almost gray appearance.
- After hearing the bad news, her face turned ashen
- His ashen complexion worried the doctors
pale
Indicates a lightness of color, often used to describe someone's skin when they are unwell, scared, or naturally fair-skinned. The term can suggest a lack of vitality.
- She went pale when she heard the scary noise
- His skin is naturally pale and burns easily in the sun
gray
Typically used to describe colors or objects that are of a neutral, slate-like color. Can also metaphorically describe something dull or boring.
- The sky was gray and overcast
- His hair has turned gray over the years
- It was a gray and lifeless office environment
ashy
Usually describes something covered in or resembling ashes, but can also refer to a person's skin when dry and flaking. It can carry a slightly negative connotation when referring to skin.
- The old chimney was ashy after the fire
- She applied lotion to her ashy skin