What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
propitiate
Example
The tribe made offerings to propitiate the gods and ensure a good harvest. [propitiate: verb]
Example
He tried to propitiate his boss by working overtime and completing all his tasks on time. [propitiate: verb]
Example
She brought him flowers to propitiate him after their argument. [propitiate: verb]
placate
Example
She tried to placate her crying baby by singing a lullaby. [placate: verb]
Example
He offered to buy her dinner to placate her after their disagreement. [placate: verb]
Example
The manager tried to placate the angry customer by offering a refund. [placate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Placate is more commonly used than propitiate in everyday language. Placate is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while propitiate is less common and often used in specific religious or supernatural contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between propitiate and placate?
Propitiate is typically associated with a formal or religious tone, while placate is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
