What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
alms
Example
The beggar on the street corner asked for alms from the passersby. [alms: noun]
Example
The mosque encourages its members to give alms during the holy month of Ramadan. [alms: plural noun]
donation
Example
I made a donation to the local animal shelter to help care for the animals. [donation: noun]
Example
The company's CEO announced a large donation to support cancer research. [donation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Donation is more commonly used than alms in everyday language. Donation is a more modern and versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while alms is an older term that may be perceived as more formal or religious.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between alms and donation?
Alms is an older term that may be perceived as more formal or religious, while donation is a more modern and versatile term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
