What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hymnal
Example
The choir director passed out the hymnals before the service began. [hymnal: noun]
Example
I love the hymnal we use at our church, it has all my favorite hymns. [hymnal: adjective]
hymnbook
Example
I keep my hymnbook on my nightstand and read from it before bed. [hymnbook: noun]
Example
The choir practiced singing from the new hymnbook during their rehearsal. [hymnbook: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hymnal is more commonly used than hymnbook in religious contexts, while hymnbook may be more commonly used for personal or casual use.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hymnal and hymnbook?
Hymnal may be associated with more formal or traditional religious settings, while hymnbook may be associated with more casual or personal use, making it more versatile in terms of formality.
