Understanding “Revered”: Definition, Synonyms, and Usage
Revered – Definition and Part of Speech
“Revered” is primarily used as an adjective or a past participle verb form derived from the verb “revere.” It describes someone or something that is deeply respected, admired, or honored due to their qualities, achievements, or character. The term often conveys a sense of deep veneration and esteem.
Core Synonyms (Table Format)
Below are some principal synonyms for “revered,” with notes on nuances in meaning and example sentences demonstrating usage across different styles or registers:
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Admired | General respect without the depth of veneration implied by “revered.” | “She was admired by her colleagues for her integrity.” | Informal/Academic |
| Honored | Respect tied to a particular achievement or position. | “He was honored with an award for his lifetime contributions to science.” | Formal/Professional |
| Esteemed | High regard that may be more intellectual or professional. | “The esteemed professor delivered the keynote speech at the conference.” | Academic/Business |
| Venerated | Deep respect often due to religious or historical significance. | “He was venerated as a saint by his followers long after his death.” | Formal/Literary |
| Reverential | Respectful, showing deference or worship. | “The crowd stood in reverential silence during the memorial service.” | Formal/Ceremonial |
Usage Notes
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Admired is versatile and can be used in casual conversations, informal writing, or academic papers when you want to convey respect without implying a deep sense of veneration.
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Honored is suitable for formal contexts such as award ceremonies or professional recognition scenarios. It’s particularly effective in business environments where specific achievements are being acknowledged.
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Esteemed fits well in scholarly and professional writing, often used to describe someone with high standing or authority due to their expertise or accomplishments.
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Venerated carries a weighty connotation of deep respect, often associated with religious figures, historical icons, or cultural heroes. It’s best employed when the depth of reverence is significant and profound.
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Reverential is appropriate in contexts requiring a demonstration of deep respect or worshipful attitude, such as during ceremonies or formal observances.
Common Pitfalls
A typical confusion arises between “revered” and words like “admired,” where the intensity and context of respect differ. While both imply regard, “revered” suggests an almost sacred level of respect, often linked to deep emotional or cultural significance. Using “admired” in place of “revered” might diminish the perceived depth of respect.
Final Recap
The key synonyms for “revered” include “admired,” “honored,” “esteemed,” “venerated,” and “reverential.” Each word carries a unique nuance, ranging from general respect to deep veneration. Understanding these distinctions can enrich your vocabulary, allowing you to choose the most appropriate term based on context and intensity of respect.
To further develop proficiency in using these synonyms, try incorporating them into your writing or conversations. Experiment with crafting sentences that fit different scenarios—be it a casual chat, formal presentation, or academic paper—to grasp their subtle differences better. This practice will enhance both your expressive capability and comprehension in diverse settings.