What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
epistle
Example
The apostle Paul wrote many epistles to the early Christian churches. [epistle: noun]
Example
She penned an epistle to her friend, detailing her recent travels and experiences. [epistle: noun]
missive
Example
The embassy sent a missive to the foreign ministry, outlining their concerns. [missive: noun]
Example
He received a missive from his boss, instructing him to attend an urgent meeting. [missive: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Missive is more commonly used than epistle in everyday language, especially in official or professional contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between epistle and missive?
Missive is generally considered more formal than epistle, as it is often used in official or professional contexts and has a more bureaucratic connotation.
