What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
priest
Example
The priest led the congregation in prayer. [priest: noun]
Example
He was ordained as a priest last year. [priest: adjective]
clergyman
Example
The clergyman delivered a powerful sermon on forgiveness. [clergyman: noun]
Example
He was ordained as a clergyman in the Anglican Church. [clergyman: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Priest is more commonly used than clergyman in everyday language, especially in Catholic communities. However, clergyman is still a widely recognized term and can be used in various religious contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between priest and clergyman?
Priest is often associated with a more formal and traditional religious setting, while clergyman can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it a more versatile term.
