What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
anthem
Example
The national anthem is sung before every sports event. [anthem: noun]
Example
The choir performed a beautiful anthem during the church service. [anthem: adjective]
hymn
Example
We sang a hymn of praise during the church service. [hymn: noun]
Example
The congregation joined together to sing hymns of worship. [hymns: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hymn is more commonly used than anthem in religious or spiritual contexts, especially in churches or religious gatherings. Anthem is more commonly used in secular contexts, such as sporting events, national ceremonies, or patriotic gatherings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between anthem and hymn?
While hymn is typically associated with a formal and religious tone, anthem can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the specific occasion or event.
