What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
clericalist
Example
The politician's views are often seen as clericalist, as he consistently supports policies aligned with religious doctrines. [clericalist: adjective]
Example
She is a strong clericalist, arguing that religious leaders should have a say in shaping public policies. [clericalist: noun]
cleric
Example
The cleric delivered a powerful sermon that touched the hearts of the congregation. [cleric: noun]
Example
He decided to become a cleric after years of studying theology and practicing his faith. [cleric: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cleric is a more commonly used term compared to clericalist. Cleric is widely recognized and used in various contexts, including religious, academic, and everyday language. In contrast, clericalist is less commonly used and may be more specific to discussions or debates about the role of religion in society.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between clericalist and cleric?
While cleric is a formal term that is commonly used in both religious and academic contexts, clericalist is less formal and may be more commonly used in specific discussions or debates about the influence of religion in non-religious matters.