What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pontiff
Example
The pontiff addressed the crowd gathered in St. Peter's Square. [pontiff: noun]
Example
He was considered a pontiff in the world of classical music. [pontiff: noun]
bishop
Example
The bishop led the congregation in prayer during the service. [bishop: noun]
Example
She was ordained as a bishop in the Anglican Church. [bishop: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bishop is a more commonly used term than pontiff in everyday language, as it is a more general term that can be applied to various Christian denominations. Pontiff is a more specialized term that is primarily used in reference to the leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pontiff and bishop?
Pontiff is a more formal term than bishop, as it is a title reserved for the highest-ranking official in the Catholic Church. Bishop can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the situation and the speaker's relationship to the bishop in question.
