hallow

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "hallow" is correct and it can be used in written English.
It is an archaic verb meaning to make holy or to sanctify something. Example sentence: We hallowed the ground where the temple was built.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

"The death of John Brown would thenceforth hallow the scaffold," she wrote, "even as the death of Christ had hallowed the cross".

The New York Times

By today's words alone, we cannot exalt, we cannot hallow, we cannot venerate this sacred text, for a grateful nation long ago came to view those words with reverence, without guidance from this chagrined member of the mainstream media.

The Guardian

On more than one occasion, the Halakhic pattern has served as a defense against a hostile environment, thus becoming a kind of scrupulousness (an obsessive concern with minute details), but, just as often, the dynamic of the intention has broken through to reestablish its integrity and to hallow life in its wholeness.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But, in a larger sense, we cannot dedicate — we cannot consecrate — we cannot hallow — this ground.

Independent

A tremendous assortment of vessel designs was created in the Southeast: floral, geometric, clay appliqué, delicate polished water bottles and huge burial jars, as well as many lovely vessels created to hallow a shrine, decorate a temple, or do homage to a god all providing evidence of the imagination, skill, and sheer love of clay for its own sake that these early potters must have felt.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Because Ronald Reagan has deposed Jimmy Carter, and I predict that by 2013 my influence will be profound, and a new generation of leaders will hallow my name, and devotion to self-interest and capitalism and the free market will not be the exception but the rule, and these leaders will naturally share my disapproval of religion, my support of abortion rights, and my love of Godiva chocolates.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Halloween was celebrated throughout the 19th century, particularly in Ireland and Scotland (as we see in, for example, Daniel Maclise's painting of 1832, Snap Apple Night, or All-Hallow Eve), but it had no place in the publishing calendar.

The Guardian - Books

Coming hours after Barack Obama had declared that he was building an international coalition to "degrade and ultimately destroy" IS and that he would "not hesitate to take action" in Syria as well as Iraq, it made Britain look like a confused, half-hearted ally.In this section The tax-free recovery Back into the fray Hallowed be thy game Paying the field Death of a salesman Hello world!

The Economist

It has offered to take on hundreds of Phones 4U's former employees.In this section The tax-free recovery Back into the fray Hallowed be thy game Paying the field Death of a salesman Hello world!

The Economist

Raw deal Hallowed ground A gambling man ReprintsAs the spill drags on, Americans are becoming ever more frustrated.

The Economist

That reputation has made it difficult to attract good teachers and has dulled enthusiasm for the subject.In this section The tax-free recovery Back into the fray Hallowed be thy game Paying the field Death of a salesman Hello world!

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "hallow" when you want to convey a sense of deep respect or sanctification, particularly in formal or religious contexts. It adds a touch of solemnity and reverence to your writing.

Common error

Avoid mistaking "hallow" for "hollow". "Hallow" means to make holy, while "hollow" means empty inside. Double-check your spelling to ensure you're using the correct word for your intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "hallow" is as a transitive verb, meaning to make something holy or sacred. Ludwig shows it's used to describe the act of consecrating places or ideas. It can also function as a noun, denoting a saint, though this usage is rare.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Encyclopedias

14%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Social Media

8%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "hallow" is a grammatically correct verb that means to make holy or sanctify something. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usefulness in written English. It is used primarily in formal contexts, such as news and encyclopedias, to express reverence or sanctification. While it can be mistaken for "hollow", understanding its unique meaning ensures accurate usage. Remember that using "hallow" adds a touch of solemnity and respect to your writing. Related phrases like "sanctify" and "consecrate" offer similar meanings, but the particular word choice should depend on the specific context and tone you want to achieve.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sanctify

Uses a more common synonym that directly means to make holy.

consecrate

Implies a formal dedication to a sacred purpose.

venerate

Focuses on showing deep respect and reverence.

revere

Similar to venerate, emphasizing profound respect and admiration.

make sacred

A more descriptive phrase meaning to cause to be holy.

deify

Elevates something or someone to divine status.

bless

Confers divine favor or approval.

exalt

Lifts up or praises highly, often in a religious context.

honor

Shows great respect and admiration, though not necessarily in a religious sense.

dedicate

Sets something aside for a specific, often sacred, purpose.

FAQs

How can I use "hallow" in a sentence?

You can use "hallow" as a verb meaning to make holy or to sanctify something. For example, "We must "hallow" this ground, for it will be a place of worship."

What words are similar to "hallow"?

Synonyms for "hallow" include "sanctify", "consecrate", and "venerate". These words all imply a sense of making something sacred or showing deep respect.

Is it correct to use "hallow" in modern writing?

Yes, although "hallow" is an older word, it is still correct to use in modern writing, especially when aiming for a formal or somewhat archaic tone. However, be mindful of your audience and ensure the word's meaning is clear in context.

What is the difference between "hallow" and "hollow"?

"Hallow" means to make holy or to sanctify, while "hollow" means empty inside. The words have completely different meanings and should not be confused.