What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
innocent
Example
The suspect was found innocent of all charges. [innocent: adjective]
Example
She had an innocent look on her face, indicating she didn't know what was going on. [innocent: adjective]
Example
The water in this lake is pure and innocent, with no pollutants. [innocent: adjective]
pure
Example
The gold was pure and of the highest quality. [pure: adjective]
Example
She had a pure heart and always tried to do the right thing. [pure: adjective]
Example
The music was pure and untouched by commercialism. [pure: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pure is more commonly used than innocent in everyday language, as it has a wider range of applications and a more positive connotation. Innocent is more commonly used in legal or social contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between innocent and pure?
Both innocent and pure can be used in formal or informal contexts, but pure may be more commonly used in formal writing due to its positive connotation and association with moral purity.