devout believer

USAGE SUMMARY

"devout believer" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone who is deeply committed to their religious beliefs and practices. Example: The ceremony was attended by hundreds of devout believers, all bowing their heads in prayer as the pastor delivered a powerful sermon.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

But she is a devout believer in the future of a democratic Europe.

The New York Times

Although he was a devout believer, he did not consider himself political.

The New Yorker

The results were enough to astonish & depress the most devout believer in democracy.

The New Yorker

He described the man as intelligent and educated, and a devout believer in radical Islamic teachings.

The Guardian

"I'm a devout believer in God," says a young man's yarmulke.

The New York Times - Magazine

That Tosca is a devout believer is central to her character.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

The same cannot be said of the most devout believers.

The Economist

Even devout believers walk a tightrope over the abyss.

The New Yorker

Many of Obama's supporters are devout believers.

The New York Times

This is not, of course, what devout believers think.

The New York Times - Books

They are devout believers in the global marketplace.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone as a "devout believer", provide context about the specific belief system they adhere to for clarity and richer understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "devout believer" loosely. Ensure the individual's actions and lifestyle genuinely reflect a deep commitment to their stated beliefs, avoiding superficial associations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "devout believer" functions primarily as a noun phrase that describes a person. It combines the adjective "devout", meaning deeply religious, with the noun "believer", indicating someone who holds certain beliefs. It is used to characterize an individual's strong religious commitment, aligning with examples shown by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Wiki

14%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

1%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "devout believer" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe someone with a deep and sincere commitment to their religious beliefs. As confirmed by Ludwig, its primary function is to characterize an individual's strong faith. While it carries a neutral register and appears frequently in news and media, it's important to provide context to avoid overgeneralization. Related phrases like ""religious believer"" or ""fervent follower"" offer nuanced alternatives depending on the specific connotation you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

devoted believer

Emphasizes dedication and loyalty to the belief system.

firm believer

Focuses on the steadfastness of belief rather than religious devotion.

steadfast believer

Emphasizes unwavering belief and commitment.

fervent believer

Highlights the intense enthusiasm and passion associated with the belief.

avid believer

Suggests an enthusiastic and keen interest in the belief.

religious believer

Specifically denotes adherence to religious beliefs.

sincere believer

Highlights the genuineness and authenticity of the belief.

strong believer

Focuses on the intensity and power of the belief.

passionate believer

Highlights the emotional investment in the belief.

enthusiastic believer

Suggests excitement and eagerness in embracing the belief.

FAQs

How can I use "devout believer" in a sentence?

You can use "devout believer" to describe someone who is deeply committed to their faith, for example: "She is a "devout believer" who attends church every Sunday."

What are some alternatives to "devout believer"?

Some alternatives include "religious believer", "pious individual", or "fervent follower", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "devout believer" in a formal setting?

Yes, "devout believer" is appropriate in formal settings, especially when discussing religion or personal beliefs. However, ensure the context is respectful and relevant.

What is the difference between a "devout believer" and a "casual believer"?

A "devout believer" is deeply committed and actively practices their faith, while a casual believer may identify with a religion but not consistently adhere to its practices or doctrines.