What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
expiation
Example
The priest advised the penitent to perform acts of expiation for his sins. [expiation: noun]
Example
She felt a sense of relief after making expiation for her mistake. [expiation: gerund]
reparation
Example
The company offered to make reparations for the damage caused by their faulty product. [reparations: noun]
Example
He made reparations to his friend for breaking his phone. [reparations: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Reparation is more commonly used than expiation in everyday language, as it is more versatile and can be used in various contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between expiation and reparation?
Both expiation and reparation are formal words that are often used in legal, moral, or religious contexts. However, reparation is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while expiation is less common and may be perceived as more formal or archaic.
