What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sermonize
Example
The priest sermonized about the importance of forgiveness. [sermonize: verb]
Example
I don't want to listen to him sermonize about politics again. [sermonize: verb]
exhort
Example
The coach exhorted his team to give their best effort in the game. [exhort: verb]
Example
The speaker exhorted the audience to take action against climate change. [exhorted: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Exhort is more commonly used than sermonize in everyday language. Exhort is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while sermonize is less common and is mostly used in religious contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sermonize and exhort?
Both sermonize and exhort are formal words, but sermonize is more formal and is mostly used in religious or academic contexts, while exhort can be used in both formal and informal contexts.