What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cleric
Example
The cleric led the congregation in prayer during the Sunday service. [cleric: noun]
Example
She decided to become a cleric and devote her life to serving her faith. [cleric: noun]
priest
Example
The priest delivered a sermon on forgiveness during the church service. [priest: noun]
Example
He was ordained as a priest and now performs weddings and baptisms. [priest: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Priest is more commonly used than cleric in everyday language, especially within the context of Christianity. Cleric is a less common term and may be more frequently used in academic or formal discussions about religion.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cleric and priest?
Both cleric and priest can be used in formal and informal contexts, depending on the specific religious tradition being discussed. However, priest may carry more religious and cultural associations, making it slightly more formal in certain contexts.
