What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
deist
Example
As a deist, he believed in God but rejected the idea of miracles. [deist: noun]
Example
Deism emerged as a response to the religious conflicts of the time, emphasizing reason and natural law. [deism: noun]
rationalist
Example
As a rationalist, she believed that all knowledge should be based on reason and evidence. [rationalist: noun]
Example
Rationalism challenged the authority of the church and emphasized the importance of individual thought. [rationalism: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Rationalist is more commonly used than deist in everyday language. Rationalism has had a broader impact on philosophy and science, while deism is a more specific belief system related to the existence of God.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between deist and rationalist?
Both deist and rationalist are associated with formal and academic language, as they are both philosophical movements that have had a significant impact on Western thought and culture.
