sanctuary

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'sanctuary' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to refer to a place that provides safety or refuge. For example: "The church was a sanctuary for homeless people to find shelter and security."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

At the start, Sheffield Cathedral is a must – check out the Tudor Shrewsbury chapel, the medieval chancel and sanctuary and the regimental chapel of St George.

The Guardian - Travel

Either outcome would afford terrorists an ideal sanctuary, a greater danger than Awlaki even at his most malign, especially for the pro-western monarchies elsewhere on the Arabian Peninsula.

The Guardian - Opinion

Within a short walk, past the madrasa, are the Forodhani Gardens, a seafront sanctuary filled with walkways, benches and food stalls.

The Guardian

Before hitting the town we take a boat out to the mystical Isola di Barbana, an island sanctuary that has been drawing pilgrims since medieval times, then carry on to the most eastern point of the lagoon, to Valle Cavanata nature reserve.

The Guardian - Travel

When I left Surrey I put the others in a sanctuary but I kept looking after them, I used to go and talk to them.

The Guardian - Music

2. Look into a safe sanctuary around the M25 where former members of JLS can roam free.

The Guardian - Music

But that is completely separate from our obligation to provide sanctuary for the most vulnerable.

The Guardian

The café is a kind sanctuary for women, with an abundance of exposed ears, forearms, and hair.

The Guardian

Then, at the opening of the 21st century, a US administration that will go down in history for its tendency to think last and shoot first bought – hook, line and sinker – the entire "denying sanctuary", pervasive surveillance, "total information awareness" scheme.

The Guardian - Tech

Antigua: Start your day with a relaxing yoga class at Cocobay, a sandy sanctuary with 41 pastel-painted cottages and four plantation houses.

The Guardian - Travel

The narrow but hugely extended gulch that snakes down from the lifeless upper reaches of Lascar and finishes in the Atacama desert is a thin vein of life where many creatures find sanctuary.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sanctuary", consider the specific connotation you want to convey – is it primarily about physical safety, emotional refuge, or religious significance? Choose the word that best reflects the intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "sanctuary" to describe temporary or casual retreats. The term implies a degree of importance, either due to the special status as protected place or as a particularly necessary and needed refuge. Ensure the context justifies the weight of the word.

Linguistic Context

The word "sanctuary" functions primarily as a noun. It typically refers to a place offering protection or refuge, as shown in Ludwig's examples. It can also denote a sacred area, such as in a church or temple. The Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical standing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sanctuary" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun, as validated by Ludwig AI, primarily denoting a place of safety, refuge, or sacredness. The term's usage spans across various contexts, prominently featuring in news and media, formal business documents, and scientific discussions. While alternatives like "safe haven" and "place of refuge" exist, "sanctuary" carries its own unique weight. When using this term, ensure the context aligns with its connotation of long-term protection or sacred significance. The high number of examples found by Ludwig indicate its widespread and accepted usage in modern English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

safe haven

Emphasizes the aspect of being a secure and protected place.

place of refuge

Highlights the idea of finding shelter and protection from danger or distress.

zone of safety

Clearly communicates a secure and protected location.

protected area

Focuses on the aspect of being officially designated for protection, often for nature or wildlife.

area of protection

Focuses on active measures being taken to safeguard a place or its inhabitants.

asylum

Implies a place of safety and security, often granted to refugees or those fleeing persecution.

retreat

Suggests a place for quiet contemplation and escape from the pressures of daily life.

preserve

Emphasizes the act of maintaining and protecting something in its original state.

holy place

Highlights the sacred and religious aspect of a location.

inner sanctum

Refers to a private and secluded space, often with limited access.

FAQs

How can I use "sanctuary" in a sentence?

You can use "sanctuary" to describe a place of safety (e.g., "The forest became a sanctuary for endangered species") or a sacred area (e.g., "The ancient temple served as a sanctuary").

What can I say instead of "sanctuary"?

You can use alternatives like "safe haven", "place of refuge", or "asylum", depending on the context.

Which is correct, "sanctuary" or "sanctum"?

"Sanctuary" and "sanctum" are related but not interchangeable. "Sanctuary" refers to a place of refuge or a sacred area, while "sanctum" refers to a private or holy place. The best choice depends on the intended meaning.

What is the difference between "sanctuary" and "shelter"?

"Shelter" generally refers to a temporary place of protection from the elements or immediate danger. "Sanctuary" implies a more permanent or sacred place of refuge, offering safety and security over a longer term.