What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
purity
Example
The purity of the water in the lake was tested before allowing swimming. [purity: noun]
Example
She was known for her purity of heart and her kindness towards others. [purity: noun]
chastity
Example
The nuns took vows of chastity as part of their religious commitment. [chastity: noun]
Example
He admired her chastity and her commitment to waiting until marriage to have sex. [chastity: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Purity is more commonly used than chastity in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and has a more neutral connotation. Chastity is more commonly used in religious or moral contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between purity and chastity?
Both purity and chastity can be used in formal and informal contexts, but chastity may have a more formal or archaic tone due to its association with religious or moral codes.
