What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
consecrate
Example
The bishop will consecrate the new church building next week. [consecrate: verb]
Example
The priest performed a consecration ceremony to bless the new altar. [consecration: noun]
sanctify
Example
The holy water is used to sanctify the church before each service. [sanctify: verb]
Example
The saint was sanctified by the pope after performing several miracles. [sanctified: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sanctify is less commonly used than consecrate in everyday language, but both words are still used in religious or spiritual contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between consecrate and sanctify?
Both consecrate and sanctify are formal words that are typically used in religious or ceremonial contexts. However, consecrate may have a more official or bureaucratic connotation, while sanctify may have a more personal or emotional connotation.