What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
laicization
Example
The priest was laicized after he was found guilty of misconduct. [laicized: verb]
Example
After years of service, the nun requested laicization to pursue a different career. [laicization: noun]
secularization
Example
The country's constitution guarantees the secularization of the government. [secularization: noun]
Example
There has been a noticeable trend towards secularization in recent years, with fewer people attending church. [secularization: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Secularization is more commonly used than laicization in everyday language, as it has a broader scope and can be applied to various contexts. Laicization is more specific and is typically used in the context of the Catholic Church or other Christian denominations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between laicization and secularization?
Laicization and secularization are both formal words that are typically used in academic or legal contexts. However, laicization may be more formal due to its association with the Catholic Church and its specific usage in canon law.