What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
clerical
Example
She works as a clerical assistant at a law firm. [clerical: adjective]
Example
The company is hiring for a clerical position to handle administrative tasks. [clerical: noun]
ministerial
Example
He serves as the ministerial advisor to the Prime Minister. [ministerial: adjective]
Example
The conference was attended by various ministerial officials from different countries. [ministerial: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Clerical is more commonly used than ministerial in everyday language, especially in business and administrative contexts. Ministerial is more specific to government and public administration settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between clerical and ministerial?
Both clerical and ministerial can be used in formal contexts. However, ministerial is generally associated with a higher level of formality due to its connection with government and public affairs.