What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
stigmata
Example
The saint was said to have received the stigmata, bearing the same wounds as Christ. [stigmata: noun]
Example
Some believers claim to have experienced stigmata as a sign of their devotion. [stigmata: plural noun]
scars
Example
The scar on his face was a reminder of the accident he had as a child. [scar: noun]
Example
She still had scars from the surgery she had last year. [scars: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Scars is a more commonly used term than stigmata in everyday language. Scars are a common occurrence and can happen to anyone, while stigmata is rare and associated with religious or spiritual experiences.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between stigmata and scars?
Stigmata is typically associated with a formal and religious tone, while scars can be used in both formal and informal contexts.