a high church

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a high church" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in the context of describing a style of worship or a denomination within Christianity that emphasizes liturgy and tradition. Example: "The congregation at St. Mary's is known for its high church practices, including elaborate ceremonies and a focus on the sacraments."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Now as before, it is a high church of reverently prepared fish.

The New York Times

Charles Lutwidge Dodgson was the eldest son of a high church country clergyman, and had seven sisters.

The Guardian - Books

After 25 years of earning plaudits as "a high church of reverently prepared fish," as Frank Bruni, then The New York Times's restaurant critic, called it in 2005, Le Bernardin has undergone a sleek makeover.

The New York Times

Coming from a high church tradition I have always tried to be loyal to my bishop if, on occasions, challenging, I have happily taken the oath of canonical obedience 'in all things lawful'.

Independent

Smart, a high church Anglican, was widely known throughout London.

Wikipedia

Café des Artistes has been a high church of fine dining since the '70s.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

One typically petitions a church official, and if he does not grant a divorce — which frequently happens — one may appeal to a higher church council.

The New York Times

It will ask for a stay that would prevent the Archdiocese of New York from taking any further action -- to either close the school permanently, or rent out the school building -- until a higher church legal authority, like the Vatican, hears the case.

The New York Times

You're always off balance with it, sometimes as if you were being subjected at once to a high-church orison and a dirty joke.

The New Yorker

For example, a high-church Anglican or Lutheran has more in common with an Orthodox theologian than with a Baptist theologian.

Encyclopedia Britannica

As a regular church worshipper and daughter of a high-church Oxfordshire clergyman, it won't be a surprise if religious music features in her selections.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a high church", ensure you are referring to a specific tradition within Christianity that emphasizes ritual, ceremony, and a more structured form of worship. Be mindful of the specific denomination or context you're describing.

Common error

Avoid using "a high church" as a generic term for any church or religious organization. It specifically denotes a tradition within certain denominations, so using it inappropriately can lead to miscommunication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a high church" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It identifies a specific style of worship or a type of church known for its emphasis on liturgy and tradition, as seen in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a high church" is a noun phrase used to describe a church, mainly within Anglican and Lutheran traditions, that emphasizes liturgy, sacraments, and traditional practices. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and primarily found in news, encyclopedias and wikis, indicating a neutral to formal register. While not overly common, it's important to use this phrase accurately to avoid misrepresenting different styles of worship. Consider related terms like "liturgical church" or "traditional church" depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

liturgical church

Focuses on the liturgical aspect, emphasizing formal rituals and ceremonies.

traditional church

Highlights adherence to established customs and practices.

established church

Emphasizes the official or recognized status of a particular church within a region or nation.

orthodox church

Refers to churches that maintain strict adherence to traditional doctrines and practices.

ritualistic church

Underscores the importance of rituals and symbolic actions in worship.

formal church

Indicates a structured and conventional approach to religious services.

sacramental church

Highlights the significance of sacraments in the religious experience.

Anglican church

Specifically identifies a church within the Anglican Communion, often associated with high church traditions.

Catholic church

Points to the Roman Catholic Church, which also incorporates formal liturgy and traditions.

conservative church

Emphasizes a traditional and unchanging approach to faith and practice.

FAQs

What does "a high church" mean?

The term "a high church" typically refers to a style of worship and theological perspective within certain Christian denominations (like Anglicanism or Lutheranism) that emphasizes liturgy, sacraments, and tradition. It is often characterized by more elaborate ceremonies and a reverent atmosphere.

How is "a high church" different from a low church?

While "a high church" emphasizes liturgy and tradition, a low church typically favors a more simple and less formal style of worship. Low churches often prioritize preaching and personal experience over elaborate rituals.

What are some characteristics of "a high church" service?

Characteristics of "a high church" service may include the use of incense, elaborate vestments for clergy, chanting or singing of liturgical texts, a focus on the sacraments (especially the Eucharist), and a generally formal and reverent atmosphere.

What can I say instead of "a high church"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "liturgical church", "traditional church", or "formal church". The best choice depends on the specific aspect you want to emphasize.