What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
samsara
Example
According to Hinduism, samsara is the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth that all living beings must go through. [samsara: noun]
Example
The Buddhist concept of samsara emphasizes the impermanence and suffering of existence. [samsara: noun]
reincarnation
Example
Hindus believe in reincarnation, where the soul is reborn into a new body after death. [reincarnation: noun]
Example
Buddhists believe in the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, known as samsara, which includes the concept of reincarnation. [reincarnation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Reincarnation is a more commonly used term than samsara in everyday language, as it is a more general term used in many religions. However, samsara is a central concept in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism and is more commonly used in discussions of these religions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between samsara and reincarnation?
Both samsara and reincarnation are formal terms used in religious and philosophical contexts.
