What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
propitiation
Example
The tribe offered a propitiation to the gods to ensure a bountiful harvest. [propitiation: noun]
Example
He hoped his prayers would serve as a propitiation for his past sins. [propitiation: noun]
expiation
Example
She sought expiation for her mistake by apologizing and making things right. [expiation: noun]
Example
He felt he needed to perform some form of expiation to make up for his misdeeds. [expiation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Expiation is more commonly used than propitiation in everyday language. Expiation is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while propitiation is less common and often used in religious or spiritual contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between propitiation and expiation?
Both propitiation and expiation are formal words that are typically used in serious or religious contexts. However, propitiation may be considered more formal due to its association with religious rituals and sacrifices.
