What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
godly
Example
She lived a godly life, attending church every Sunday. [godly: adjective]
Example
The priest gave a godly sermon that inspired the congregation. [godly: adverb]
pious
Example
He was known for his pious devotion to his faith. [pious: adjective]
Example
The nuns spent their days in pious contemplation and prayer. [pious: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pious is more commonly used than godly in everyday language, as it has a broader range of applications beyond just religious contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between godly and pious?
Both godly and pious are formal words that are typically used in serious or religious contexts. However, pious may be perceived as slightly more formal due to its Latin origin and use in literary works.
