sanctity

Meanings

1. 1noununcountableformal

   The quality of being sacred or so deeply important that it must be respected and not harmed.

   Grammar: Almost always followed by of: the sanctity of life.

   Patterns

   • the sanctity of something

   The judge stressed the sanctity of the jury's decision.

   Many people believe in the sanctity of marriage vows.

   Reporters were reminded to respect the sanctity of the family's grief.

2. 2noununcountablereligionliterary

   The state of being holy or deeply religious.

   Grammar: Used mostly of places and people in religious contexts.

   Patterns

   • the sanctity of a place

   Pilgrims were drawn by the sanctity of the ancient temple.

   He was admired for his sanctity and quiet life.

   The sanctity of the chapel was broken by loud voices.

Common combinations

the sanctity of life

The doctor spoke about the sanctity of life.

the sanctity of marriage

They argued about the sanctity of marriage.

violate the sanctity of

Reading her diary would violate the sanctity of her privacy.

respect the sanctity of

Visitors must respect the sanctity of the burial ground.

sanctity of the home

The law protects the sanctity of the home.

Synonyms and how they differ

sacredness

Sacredness is the nearest synonym and is a little more religious in feel.

inviolability

Inviolability stresses that something must not be broken or attacked, and is more formal.

holiness

Holiness is strictly religious, whereas sanctity also covers moral and legal respect.

hallowedness

Hallowedness is rare and suggests honor from long tradition.

Opposites

Word family

sanctify verb

to make holy

sanctuary noun

a holy place, or a place of safety

sanction noun

an official approval or a penalty

sanctimonious adjective

acting morally superior

Commonly confused: sanctity or sanctuary? sanctity or sanction?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “sanctity”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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