What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
expiate
Example
He tried to expiate his guilt by confessing to the authorities. [expiate: verb]
Example
She felt the need to expiate her sins by doing good deeds. [expiate: verb]
atone
Example
He wanted to atone for his mistake by apologizing to his friend. [atone: verb]
Example
She hoped to atone for her sins by doing charitable work. [atone: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Atonement is more commonly used than expiate in everyday language.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between expiate and atone?
Both words are formal and may not be commonly used in casual conversation. However, atone is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
