There is often confusion surrounding the terms “ordain” and “ordination.” While they may sound similar, they have distinct meanings and uses. In this article, we will explore the differences between these two words and clarify their proper usage.
We should define each term. “Ordain” refers to the act of appointing someone to a religious position or office, typically through a formal ceremony or ritual. On the other hand, “ordination” is the actual process of becoming ordained, including the necessary training, education, and certification.
So, which of these words is the proper one to use? The answer is that it depends on the context. If you are referring to the act of appointing someone to a religious position, then “ordain” is the correct term. However, if you are referring to the process of becoming ordained, then “ordination” is the more appropriate choice.
Now that we have established the difference between these two terms, let’s delve deeper into their meanings and usage in various religious contexts.
Define Ordain
Ordain is a verb that means to officially appoint someone for a religious or ceremonial position. It is often used in the context of conferring holy orders, such as the ordination of a priest or bishop. The word is derived from the Latin word ‘ordinare’, which means to order or arrange.
Ordain can also mean to decree or establish something as a law or rule. For example, a government may ordain a new policy or regulation.
Define Ordination
Ordination is the process of officially conferring holy orders on someone, such as a priest or bishop, in a religious ceremony. It is a formal and solemn event that is often accompanied by prayers, blessings, and the laying on of hands. The ordination ceremony is an important milestone in the life of a religious leader, as it marks their acceptance into the clergy.
Ordination can also refer to the act of establishing or decreeing something as a law or rule. For example, the ordination of a new policy by a government.
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
Using words correctly in a sentence is crucial to effective communication. The words ‘ordain’ and ‘ordination’ are often used interchangeably, but they have different meanings and uses. In this section, we will discuss how to use these words in a sentence properly.
How To Use ‘Ordain’ In A Sentence
The word ‘ordain’ is a verb that means to officially appoint or decree something. It is often used in religious contexts, such as ordaining a priest or minister. However, it can also be used in a secular context, such as ordaining a law or policy.
Here are some examples of how to use ‘ordain’ correctly in a sentence:
- The bishop will ordain the new priest during the ceremony.
- The government has ordained a new policy to reduce carbon emissions.
- The university will ordain the new chancellor with a formal ceremony.
In each of these examples, ‘ordain’ is used to indicate an official appointment or decree. It is important to use ‘ordain’ only in this context to avoid confusion with ‘ordination’.
How To Use ‘Ordination’ In A Sentence
The word ‘ordination’ is a noun that refers to the act of officially appointing or decreeing something. It is often used in religious contexts, such as the ordination of a priest or minister. However, it can also be used in a secular context, such as the ordination of a law or policy.
Here are some examples of how to use ‘ordination’ correctly in a sentence:
- The ceremony of ordination for the new priest will take place next week.
- The ordination of the new policy was met with mixed reactions from the public.
- The university’s ordination of the new chancellor was a grand affair.
In each of these examples, ‘ordination’ is used to refer to the official appointment or decree. It is important to use ‘ordination’ only in this context to avoid confusion with ‘ordain’.
More Examples Of Ordain &Amp; Ordination Used In Sentences
In this section, we will explore more examples of how the words “ordain” and “ordination” can be used in sentences. These examples will help to further illustrate the meanings and contexts in which these words are commonly used.
Examples Of Using “Ordain” In A Sentence
- The bishop will ordain the new priest next week.
- It is the responsibility of the church to ordain its ministers.
- The council voted to ordain the candidate as the new mayor.
- He was ordained as a minister in the Presbyterian Church.
- The ceremony will ordain the new deacon into the church.
- She felt called to ordain as a nun and devote her life to God.
- The church will ordain its first openly gay minister next month.
- The elders of the church will ordain the new pastor on Sunday.
- He was ordained into the priesthood after completing his studies.
- The bishop will ordain the new bishopric at the cathedral.
These examples demonstrate how “ordain” can be used in various contexts, such as in religious settings or in the context of appointing leaders.
Examples Of Using “Ordination” In A Sentence
- Her ordination as a priest was a historic moment for the church.
- He decided to pursue ordination as a minister after college.
- The ceremony of ordination is a sacred and meaningful event.
- She completed her ordination training and was ready to serve as a pastor.
- His ordination as a bishop was met with great celebration and joy.
- The church has strict requirements for ordination as a deacon.
- After his ordination, he was assigned to a small parish in the countryside.
- The seminary offers a program for ordination in various religious traditions.
- She felt a sense of fulfillment after her ordination as a nun.
- The church council oversees the process of ordination for new ministers.
These examples demonstrate how “ordination” is commonly used in the context of religious training, ceremonies, and traditions.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When it comes to the words “ordain” and “ordination,” people often use them interchangeably. However, they have distinct meanings and should not be used in place of each other. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Mistake #1: Using “Ordain” Instead Of “Ordination” To Refer To The Process Of Becoming A Priest Or Minister
While “ordain” can refer to the process of becoming a priest or minister, it is not the same as “ordination.” “Ordain” is a verb that means to officially appoint or confer authority upon someone, while “ordination” is a noun that refers specifically to the ceremony or process of becoming a priest or minister. Therefore, it is incorrect to say “I was ordained as a priest” when you actually mean “I underwent ordination to become a priest.”
Mistake #2: Using “Ordination” Instead Of “Ordain” To Refer To The Act Of Conferring Authority
On the other hand, “ordination” should not be used in place of “ordain” when referring to the act of conferring authority. “Ordain” is the correct verb to use in this context, as it specifically means to confer authority upon someone. Therefore, it is incorrect to say “I underwent ordination as a priest” when you actually mean “I was ordained as a priest.”
Mistake #3: Using “Ordain” Or “Ordination” To Refer To Non-religious Contexts
Finally, it is important to note that “ordain” and “ordination” are primarily used in religious contexts. Using them in non-religious contexts can be confusing and misleading. For example, using “ordain” to refer to the appointment of a CEO or the election of a political leader would be incorrect.
To avoid making these mistakes in the future, it is important to understand the distinct meanings of “ordain” and “ordination” and use them appropriately. If you are unsure which word to use, consult a dictionary or style guide for guidance.
Context Matters
When it comes to the usage of the words “ordain” and “ordination,” context plays a significant role in determining which word is more appropriate. Both words have similar meanings, but they differ in their usage and connotation.
Ordain Vs. Ordination
Ordain is a verb that means to confer holy orders upon someone, such as a priest or minister. It can also mean to establish or enact something, such as a law or rule.
On the other hand, ordination is a noun that refers to the act of ordaining someone, or the state of being ordained. It can also refer to the ceremony or ritual that accompanies the conferring of holy orders.
Examples Of Different Contexts
Here are some examples of different contexts and how the choice between ordain and ordination might change:
Religious Context
In a religious context, the word “ordination” is often used to refer to the ceremony or ritual that accompanies the conferring of holy orders. For example:
- He received his ordination as a priest last year.
- The bishop will perform the ordination ceremony next week.
On the other hand, the word “ordain” is often used to refer to the act of conferring holy orders upon someone. For example:
- The bishop will ordain three new priests next week.
- He was ordained as a minister in the Presbyterian Church.
Legal Context
In a legal context, the word “ordain” is often used to refer to the act of establishing or enacting a law or rule. For example:
- The city council will ordain a new traffic law next month.
- The board of directors will ordain a new policy regarding employee benefits.
On the other hand, the word “ordination” is rarely used in a legal context.
Academic Context
In an academic context, the word “ordination” is rarely used. Instead, the word “ordination” is often replaced with the word “conferment.” For example:
- The university will confer a degree upon him at the graduation ceremony.
- She received the conferment of her PhD last year.
On the other hand, the word “ordain” is rarely used in an academic context.
Overall, the choice between “ordain” and “ordination” depends on the context in which they are used. Understanding the nuances of each word can help writers choose the appropriate word for their intended meaning.
Exceptions To The Rules
While there are specific rules for using the terms ordain and ordination, there are some exceptions to these rules. Let’s take a closer look at each exception and provide examples to clarify their usage.
1. Non-religious Contexts
In non-religious contexts, the terms ordain and ordination may not apply to religious ceremonies or practices. Instead, they may refer to the appointment or authorization of individuals in secular professions or organizations. For example, a government may ordain a person as a notary public or a justice of the peace.
2. Informal Language
In informal language, the rules for using ordain and ordination may not be strictly followed. People may use these terms interchangeably or use them incorrectly without realizing it. For instance, someone might say, “I was ordained as a minister last year,” when they actually mean “I received my ordination as a minister last year.”
3. Historical Usage
Historically, the usage of ordain and ordination may have differed from their current usage. In some cases, the terms may have been used more broadly or in different contexts than they are today. For example, in the 16th century, the term ordain was used to mean “to order or decree” in addition to its current meaning of “to confer holy orders.”
4. Denominational Differences
Denominational differences may also affect the usage of ordain and ordination. Some religious groups may have specific rules or traditions regarding the ordination process that differ from those of other groups. For example, some churches may require a certain amount of theological education or experience before ordaining someone as a minister, while others may not have such requirements.
5. Regional Differences
Regional differences may also play a role in the usage of ordain and ordination. In some areas, certain terms may be more commonly used or have different connotations than in other areas. For instance, in some regions, the term ordination may be used more broadly to refer to any type of commissioning or authorization, while in other regions, it may be used more specifically to refer to the conferring of holy orders.
Overall, while there are general rules for using the terms ordain and ordination, there are also exceptions to these rules that may affect their usage. It’s important to be aware of these exceptions and to use these terms appropriately in the context in which they are being used.
Practice Exercises
Now that we have discussed the differences between ordain and ordination, it’s time to put our knowledge into practice. Here are some exercises to help you improve your understanding and use of these words in sentences:
Exercise 1
Choose the correct word (either ordain or ordination) to fill in the blank in the following sentences:
- The __________ of a bishop is a sacred ceremony in many religious traditions.
- Only a priest can __________ someone as a deacon in the Catholic Church.
- The __________ of new ministers is an important event in many Protestant denominations.
- The pope has the power to __________ cardinals in the Roman Catholic Church.
- The __________ of a rabbi involves a rigorous course of study and examination.
Answer key:
- ordination
- ordain
- ordination
- ordain
- ordination
Exercise 2
Write a sentence using the word ordain correctly:
Example: The bishop will ordain the new priest next month.
Your turn:
Answer key: (varies)
Exercise 3
Write a sentence using the word ordination correctly:
Example: The ordination of the new minister was a joyous occasion for the congregation.
Your turn:
Answer key: (varies)
By practicing these exercises, you’ll be able to confidently use ordain and ordination in your writing and conversations. Remember to pay attention to the context in which these words are used to ensure you’re using them correctly.
Conclusion
After exploring the differences between ordain and ordination, it is clear that these two terms have distinct meanings and should be used appropriately.
Key takeaways from this article include:
- Ordain refers to the act of conferring holy orders or appointing someone to a position of authority.
- Ordination refers to the ceremony or process of becoming ordained.
- Ordain can also be used in a non-religious context to mean authorize or decree.
- It is important to use these terms correctly to avoid confusion and miscommunication.
As with any aspect of language use, it is always beneficial to continue learning and expanding our knowledge. By doing so, we can improve our communication skills and avoid common mistakes.
So, keep exploring the nuances of grammar and language use, and strive to use words with precision and accuracy.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.