What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
archpontiff
Example
The archpontiff delivered a powerful sermon during the Easter Mass. [archpontiff: noun]
Example
As the archpontiff, he is responsible for guiding and leading the faithful. [archpontiff: noun]
archbishop
Example
The archbishop conducted the ordination ceremony for the new priests. [archbishop: noun]
Example
He was appointed as the archbishop of the diocese last year. [archbishop: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Archbishop is a more commonly used term compared to archpontiff. The term archbishop is used to refer to various bishops within the Catholic Church, while archpontiff specifically refers to the Pope, who is the leader of the entire church.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between archpontiff and archbishop?
Archpontiff is a highly formal term that is exclusively used to refer to the Pope, the leader of the Catholic Church. Archbishop, although still formal, is a more versatile term that can be used to refer to different high-ranking bishops within the church hierarchy.
