What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
popish
Example
The popish rituals and traditions were foreign to the Protestant congregation. [popish: adjective]
Example
He accused her of being too popish in her beliefs and practices. [popish: adverb]
papist
Example
The papist priest led the mass at the cathedral. [papist: noun]
Example
The papist doctrines and teachings were considered heretical by the Protestant reformers. [papist: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Papist is more commonly used than popish in historical and religious contexts. However, both words are less commonly used in modern language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between popish and papist?
Both popish and papist are considered formal and may be seen as outdated or offensive in certain contexts.
