What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cleanse
Example
I need to cleanse my face before going to bed. [cleanse: verb]
Example
She went on a juice cleanse to detoxify her body. [cleanse: noun]
purify
Example
The water goes through a filtration system to purify it. [purify: verb]
Example
He sought to purify his soul through meditation and self-reflection. [purify: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cleanse is more commonly used than purify in everyday language, especially in the context of personal care and health. Purify is more specific and less frequently used, often in more specialized or philosophical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cleanse and purify?
Both cleanse and purify can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, purify may be perceived as slightly more formal due to its association with deeper moral or spiritual cleansing.
