What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
atonement
Example
He sought atonement for his mistakes by apologizing to those he had hurt. [atonement: noun]
Example
She felt a sense of atonement after volunteering at the local shelter. [atonement: noun]
compensation
Example
The company offered compensation to the customers affected by the product recall. [compensation: noun]
Example
He received financial compensation for the injuries he sustained in the accident. [compensation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Compensation is more commonly used than atonement in everyday language and legal contexts. Compensation is a versatile word that covers a wide range of situations involving providing something in return for loss or inconvenience. On the other hand, atonement is less common and is typically used in religious or philosophical discussions about seeking forgiveness and reconciling with oneself or others.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between atonement and compensation?
While atonement is often associated with religious or philosophical discussions and carries a more formal tone, compensation is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, including legal and everyday language.
