What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ritual
Example
The wedding ceremony included several rituals, such as the exchange of rings and lighting of candles. [ritual: noun]
Example
She has a morning ritual of drinking coffee and reading the news. [ritual: adjective]
observance
Example
The observance of Ramadan involves fasting during daylight hours. [observance: noun]
Example
The Fourth of July observance includes a parade and fireworks display. [observance: noun]
Example
The scientist made careful observances of the animal behavior in its natural habitat. [observances: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Observance is more commonly used than ritual in everyday language. Observance is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while ritual is less common and is often associated with religious or spiritual practices.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ritual and observance?
Both ritual and observance have a formal connotation and are typically used in more serious or solemn contexts, but ritual is more commonly associated with religious or spiritual practices, while observance can be used in a broader range of formal contexts.
