What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
numinous
Example
The cathedral's stained glass windows created a numinous atmosphere. [numinous: adjective]
Example
The beauty of the sunset filled her with a sense of numinous wonder. [numinous: noun]
supernatural
Example
The ghost story was full of supernatural occurrences. [supernatural: adjective]
Example
She believed in the existence of supernatural beings like vampires and werewolves. [supernatural: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Supernatural is a more common word than numinous and is used in various contexts, including popular culture, literature, and religion. Numinous is a more specialized term that is often used in philosophical or spiritual discussions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between numinous and supernatural?
Both numinous and supernatural are formal words that are typically used in academic or intellectual contexts. However, supernatural can also be used in informal or popular contexts, while numinous is more restricted to specialized discussions.
