What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
reigner
Example
Queen Elizabeth II is the longest-reigning monarch in British history. [reigning: present participle]
Example
The reign of King Henry VIII was marked by political turmoil and religious conflict. [reign: noun]
sovereign
Example
The Queen of England is the sovereign of the United Kingdom. [sovereign: noun]
Example
The sovereign nation of Japan has a rich cultural heritage. [sovereign: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sovereign is more commonly used than reigner in everyday language, as it has a broader range of applications beyond monarchy and royalty.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between reigner and sovereign?
Sovereign has a more formal and weighty connotation than reigner, which can be used in a more casual or historical context.