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: noun]
vicar
Example
The vicar conducted the Sunday service. [vicar: noun]
Example
The bishop appointed him as vicar of the parish. [vicar: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Priest is more commonly used than vicar in everyday language, especially in Catholic communities. However, vicar is still a widely recognized term in the Anglican Church.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between priest and vicar?
Priest is generally considered more formal than vicar, as it is associated with the Catholic Church and its formal traditions. However, both terms can be used in formal and informal contexts depending on the situation.
