What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
altar
Example
The priest stood at the altar and began the ceremony. [altar: noun]
Example
She offered flowers on the altar as a sign of respect. [altar: noun]
shrine
Example
The shrine was visited by many pilgrims seeking blessings. [shrine: noun]
Example
The city built a shrine to commemorate the fallen soldiers. [shrine: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Altar is more commonly used than shrine in everyday language, especially in religious contexts. Shrine is less common and is often associated with specific cultural or religious traditions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between altar and shrine?
Altar is generally considered more formal than shrine, as it is often used in religious ceremonies and rituals. Shrine can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the context and culture.
