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Meaning & use

solemnization

noun·Advancedformal

Last updated

UK/ˌsɒləmnaɪˈzeɪʃn/
US/ˌsɑːləmnəˈzeɪʃn/

Meanings

  1. noununcountableformal

    The formal performance of a ceremony, especially a wedding, oath, or religious rite.

    Grammar: Used as an uncountable noun: the solemnization of a marriage. It is rarely used in the plural.

    Patterns

    • the solemnization of something
    • the solemnization of a marriage/oath

    The couple chose a small chapel for the solemnization of their marriage.

    The priest presided over the solemnization of the vows.

    Legal documents must be signed at the solemnization of the ceremony.

  2. noununcountableformallegal

    The act of making something official or legally valid through a formal ceremony.

    Grammar: Often followed by 'of' and the thing being made official: the solemnization of the contract.

    Patterns

    • the solemnization of something
    • solemnization of a contract

    The solemnization of the agreement took place in front of a notary.

    Without proper solemnization, the union is not recognized by law.

    They waited for the solemnization of the treaty before celebrating.

Common combinations

solemnization of marriage
The solemnization of marriage is governed by state law.
solemnization ceremony
The solemnization ceremony was held in the garden.
the solemnization of vows
Guests gathered for the solemnization of vows.
legal solemnization
Legal solemnization requires a licensed officiant.

Synonyms and how they differ

ceremony
A more general word for any formal event; 'solemnization' specifically emphasizes the official or religious act of carrying it out.
rite
Often refers to a religious custom or ritual; 'solemnization' focuses on the formal performance of that ritual.
observance
The act of following a law, custom, or tradition; 'solemnization' is narrower and usually tied to a specific ceremony like a wedding.

Word family

solemnize verb
To perform a ceremony, especially a wedding or oath.
solemn adjective
Serious and formal in manner or appearance.
solemnly adverb
In a serious and formal way.

Commonly confused: solemnization or solemnity? solemnization or solemnisation?

solemnization vs solemnity

Solemnity means the state of being serious or a serious ceremony; solemnization is the act of performing that ceremony.

solemnization vs solemnisation

This is the British spelling with -s-; American English uses -z-.

Practice

The couple invited only close family to the _____ of their wedding vows.

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