What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
obeisance
Example
The knight made an obeisance to the king before being knighted. [obeisance: noun]
Example
She performed an obeisance to the shrine as a sign of her devotion. [obeisance: noun]
homage
Example
The artist's work pays homage to the great masters of the past. [homage: noun]
Example
The team wore black armbands as an homage to their fallen teammate. [homage: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Homage is more commonly used than obeisance in everyday language. Homage is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while obeisance is less common and more specific to formal or ceremonial situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between obeisance and homage?
Obeisance is more formal and ceremonial than homage. It is typically associated with historical or traditional contexts, while homage can be used in both formal and informal contexts.