What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
paynim
Example
The knights set out on a mission to convert the paynims to Christianity. [paynim: noun]
Example
The paynim tribes lived in the mountains and worshipped their own gods. [paynim: adjective]
nonbeliever
Example
As a nonbeliever, I don't attend church services. [nonbeliever: noun]
Example
She is a nonbeliever in astrology and thinks it's all nonsense. [nonbeliever: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Nonbeliever is a more commonly used term than paynim in modern English. Paynim is an archaic term that is rarely used in contemporary language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between paynim and nonbeliever?
While paynim may sound formal or outdated due to its archaic nature, nonbeliever is a more neutral and commonly used term that can be employed in various formality levels, from casual to formal.