What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
papacy
Example
The papacy has been an influential force in world history for centuries. [papacy: noun]
Example
During his papacy, Pope Francis has made significant changes to the Catholic Church. [papacy: noun]
pontificate
Example
He pontificated on the importance of tradition in the Catholic Church. [pontificated: verb]
Example
The pontificate of Pope John Paul II was marked by significant global events. [pontificate: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Papacy is more commonly used than pontificate in everyday language, especially in discussions about the Catholic Church and its leadership.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between papacy and pontificate?
Papacy is generally considered more formal than pontificate, which can have a negative connotation when used to describe someone's speech as arrogant or dogmatic.
