godly

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'godly' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is deeply religious or pious, or to describe something that is related to or characterized by a strong sense of moral goodness or divine influence. Example sentence: "The pastor was known for his godly demeanor and dedicated service to his congregation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Spies are treated like NHS nurses, godly creatures who can do no wrong.

The Guardian - Opinion

Dirt is not godly, cleanliness is.

The Guardian - Opinion

Such rows tend to entrench attitudes, rather than lead to resolution.Now campaigners, both godly and godless, are trying to change that.

The Economist

Salon.com, an online journal, recently published a long list of ethical complaints about Mr Huckabee compiled by a reporter from Arkansas.Nationally, voters still think Mr Huckabee likeable and godly.

The Economist

It claims to be dedicated simply to uniting men to become godly influences in the world.To some Americans, especially nervous liberals and feminists, the Promise Keepers look frightening.

The Economist

"Democracy won't give us Islam or godly law," tweeted the Syrian Islamic Front, a coalition of devout rebel groups in Syria.That made it a strange bedfellow of Mr Assad, who is seeking to portray Syria's civil war as a battle between a secular regime and extremists.

The Economist

The Brotherhood in their godly wisdom hold the ultimate truth.

The Economist

"Just as your parents' calling was to turn around a generation for Christ," Mr Farris tells his charges, "your calling is to turn our nation back to a Godly foundation".

The Economist

REPUBLICANS may think theirs is the godly party, but they do not expect God to intervene at their presidential debates.

The Economist

Perhaps his most famous idea that belief is not ultimately answerable to evidence but to the will was motivated in part by a wish, in a godly nation, to render faith safe from rational criticism.

The Economist

What's more, Mr Graham was the result of a unique confluence of forces, such as the cold war between "godless Communism" and a godly America and America's embrace of a bland civil religion in the wake of the second world war.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "godly", ensure that the context clearly indicates the specific religious or moral values being emphasized. Avoid using it in contexts where secular ethics are more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "godly" to describe actions or qualities that are generally considered ethical or moral without a specific religious connotation. Overusing it can sound preachy or inappropriate in secular discussions.

Linguistic Context

The word "godly" functions primarily as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe qualities associated with a deity or adherence to religious principles. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in describing devout individuals or morally upright actions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Encyclopedias

22%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "godly" is a grammatically sound adjective frequently used to describe qualities associated with divinity, religious devotion, or moral righteousness. As Ludwig AI confirms, its primary function is to ascribe virtuous characteristics. Predominantly found in news, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts, it carries a neutral to formal register. While "godly" effectively conveys religious or moral alignment, it's crucial to consider the context and avoid overuse in secular settings. For alternative expressions, consider "devout", "pious", or "righteous" to refine your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

devout

Focuses specifically on religious commitment and piety.

pious

Emphasizes religious devotion and reverence.

righteous

Highlights moral uprightness and adherence to ethical principles.

holy

Implies sacredness and connection to the divine.

saintly

Suggests exceptional goodness and virtue.

divine

Relates directly to a god or supreme being.

reverent

Shows deep respect and awe, often in a religious context.

god-fearing

Indicates a strong sense of religious obligation and respect for God.

spiritual

Emphasizes the non-physical aspects of existence and connection to a higher power.

virtuous

Highlights moral excellence and goodness.

FAQs

How can I use "godly" in a sentence?

You can use "godly" to describe someone who is deeply religious (e.g., "a godly man") or something related to God (e.g., "godly wisdom").

What are some alternatives to "godly"?

Alternatives to "godly" include "devout", "pious", or "righteous", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "godly" in a secular context?

Using "godly" in a secular context can be perceived as inappropriate or overly religious. Consider using more neutral terms like "ethical" or "moral" instead.

What's the difference between "godly" and "holy"?

"Godly" generally refers to qualities or actions that are pleasing to God, while "holy" implies sacredness and being set apart for religious purposes. Though closely related, "holy" often denotes a more formal religious status or attribute.