venerate

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "venerate" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to respect or honor someone or something highly. For example, "The people of the small village venerate their local saint."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Since the 15th century, the followers of local saint-scholar Srimanta Sankardeva, who venerate the god Vishnu, have been building monasteries, or satras, here.

The Guardian - Travel

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

As prime minister, however, one of Mr Noda's most symbolic foreign-policy gestures would be whether or not he visits Yasukuni on the annual August 15th ceremony to venerate the souls of Japan's war dead.

The Economist

This week, as millions left the cities for an annual pilgrimage to villages where they venerate the souls of their ancestors, many were likely to be stuck in 40-mile traffic jams on oven-like expressways, cursing the midsummer heat.Such misery is common during the Buddhist festival of Obon, but it is worse this year.

The Economist

Christians still venerate St Francis of Assisi for the simplicity of his lifestyle.Even now, there are echoes of this philosophy in the arguments of greens who believe that people should refrain from consumption to save the planet.

The Economist

But proud Ukrainians affirm that they, too, honour the holy man; "Sergius is on our calendar and we venerate him like any other saint," a spokesman for the Kiev Patriarchate, a bastion of Ukrainian sentiment, insists.Now you would think that in space, of all places, humans would have an overwhelming intimation of the common destiny of mankind, and the futility of war.

The Economist

Their emotions ranged narrowly between hatred (which they venerate) and anger.

The Economist

IN THE English-speaking Caribbean voters tend to venerate experience in their political leaders.

The Economist

But his death led Argentines to venerate him, and turned his wife into a victim.

The Economist

Nikos Filis, a senior Syriza parliamentarian, has objected to plans to take the relics to a famous cancer hospital, where patients can venerate the saint if they wish.

The Economist

That may go down oddly with BNP supporters who venerate Britain's wartime glory days.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "venerate" to describe a deep respect and admiration, particularly for things of historical, religious, or cultural significance. It suggests more than just liking; it implies a sense of reverence.

Common error

Avoid using "venerate" when "worship" is more appropriate. "Worship" typically refers to religious adoration, while "venerate" can apply to secular figures or concepts held in high esteem.

Linguistic Context

The verb "venerate" functions primarily to express profound respect and admiration for someone or something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it denotes a high level of esteem and reverence. Examples in Ludwig show it used in contexts ranging from religious figures to historical achievements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Encyclopedias

27%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "venerate" is a verb used to express deep respect and admiration, often for things of religious, historical, or cultural importance. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in written English. It is most frequently found in formal contexts such as news, encyclopedias, and academic writing, as shown by Ludwig's examples. While alternatives like "revere", "worship", and "esteem" exist, they carry slightly different connotations. Using "venerate" correctly involves understanding its nuanced meaning and avoiding confusion with terms like "worship", which implies religious adoration. Pay close attention to its application to ensure it appropriately conveys the desired sense of deep appreciation and reverence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

revere

Implies a feeling of deep respect and admiration, often bordering on awe.

worship

Suggests a more intense form of reverence, often associated with religious contexts.

admire greatly

Highlights the feeling of approval and respect for someone or something.

esteem

Indicates a high level of respect and regard.

honor

Focuses on showing respect and recognition for someone's achievements or qualities.

look up to

Implies admiration and respect, often directed towards a role model.

regard highly

Expresses a strong positive opinion and respect.

pay homage to

Suggests a formal expression of respect and reverence.

hold in high regard

Emphasizes the positive opinion and respect held for someone or something.

value highly

Focuses on the importance and respect attributed to something.

FAQs

How can I use "venerate" in a sentence?

You can use "venerate" to describe the act of deeply respecting or revering someone or something. For example, "Scholars "venerate his contributions" to the field of quantum physics".

What's the difference between "venerate" and "worship"?

"Venerate" implies deep respect and admiration, while "worship" suggests religious devotion and adoration. You "venerate a historical figure" but worship a deity.

What are some alternatives to "venerate"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "revere", "admire greatly", or "esteem".

Is it appropriate to use "venerate" in informal contexts?

While "venerate" is more common in formal writing, it can be used in informal contexts if you want to emphasize the deep respect you have for something. Just be mindful of your audience and the overall tone.