What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
catholicos
Example
The Catholicos of All Armenians is the supreme head of the Armenian Apostolic Church. [Catholicos: noun]
Example
The Catholicos presided over the consecration ceremony of the new church. [Catholicos: noun]
patriarch
Example
The Patriarch of Constantinople is considered the spiritual leader of the Eastern Orthodox Church. [Patriarch: noun]
Example
The patriarch of the family gathered everyone for a special celebration. [patriarch: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Patriarch is more commonly known and used compared to catholicos. While patriarch has a wider recognition and usage in both religious and non-religious contexts, catholicos is less commonly known and used outside of specific Eastern Christian traditions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between catholicos and patriarch?
Both catholicos and patriarch carry a formal and respectful tone when used to address or refer to these religious leaders. However, patriarch has a wider usage and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts, while catholicos is more specific and primarily used in formal and religious settings within Eastern Christian traditions.
