What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
epiphanic
Example
After reading the book, she had an epiphanic moment and finally understood the author's message. [epiphanic: adjective]
Example
The movie's ending was epiphanic, leaving the audience with a new understanding of the characters' motivations. [epiphanic: adjective]
enlightening
Example
The lecture on astronomy was enlightening and gave me a new appreciation for the universe. [enlightening: adjective]
Example
Traveling to a foreign country can be an enlightening experience, exposing you to new cultures and ways of life. [enlightening: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Enlightening is more commonly used than epiphanic in everyday language. Enlightening is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while epiphanic is less common and has a more specific connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between epiphanic and enlightening?
Both epiphanic and enlightening can be used in formal and informal contexts, but epiphanic may be perceived as more literary or poetic in tone.