deˈvotional: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, literary, religious
Quick answer
What does “deˈvotional” mean?
Relating to or used in religious worship or prayer.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Relating to or used in religious worship or prayer; expressing or characterized by deep religious feeling.
Characterized by a profound dedication, loyalty, or love, especially to a person or cause, often in a non-religious context (e.g., devotional follower).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in core meaning. Slightly higher frequency in American English due to greater public discourse around religious practice. The extended secular use (e.g., 'devotional fan') is more common in BrE cultural criticism.
Connotations
In both, strongly tied to sincerity and depth of feeling. In US contexts, may more readily evoke specific practices like 'devotional music' or 'daily devotional' readings.
Frequency
Low-frequency in general conversation, common in religious, literary, and formal descriptive contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “deˈvotional” in a Sentence
[adjective] + noun (devotional text)preposition 'to' (devotional to the saint)adverb + devotional (deeply devotional)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “deˈvotional” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Not applicable as a verb.
American English
- Not applicable as a verb.
adverb
British English
- Not commonly used as an adverb ('devotionally' is the standard form).
American English
- Not commonly used as an adverb ('devotionally' is the standard form).
adjective
British English
- The chapel contained many devotional objects.
- She writes devotional poetry in her spare time.
American English
- He starts his day with a devotional reading.
- The service featured traditional devotional music.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might appear in metaphorical branding (e.g., 'devotional customer service').
Academic
Common in religious studies, theology, history, and literary analysis of religious texts.
Everyday
Uncommon. Used primarily by religious individuals describing their practices.
Technical
Specific in theology and musicology (e.g., 'devotional genres').
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “deˈvotional”
- Mispronunciation: /ˈdevəʊʃənəl/ (wrong stress). Confusing it with 'emotional'. Using it for casual liking rather than profound dedication.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but it is an extended metaphorical use. It describes a level of dedication comparable to religious devotion (e.g., 'a devotional follower of the philosopher').
'Devout' describes a person's character (a devout believer). 'Devotional' describes objects, activities, or feelings related to devotion (devotional music, a devotional attitude).
No, it is a mid to low-frequency word (C1 level). It is common in specific contexts like religion, art history, and literature but rare in everyday casual conversation.
A common phrase, especially in Christian contexts, for a short religious reading or meditation intended for each day of the year.
Relating to or used in religious worship or prayer.
Deˈvotional is usually formal, literary, religious in register.
Deˈvotional: in British English it is pronounced /dɪˈvəʊʃ(ə)n(ə)l/, and in American English it is pronounced /dɪˈvoʊʃ(ə)n(ə)l/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A labour of devotional love”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
DEVOTIONAL = DEVOTION + AL. Think of the deep DEVOTION found in a church's ALtar.
Conceptual Metaphor
DEDICATION IS A RELIGIOUS PRACTICE (e.g., 'She was devotional in her study of the subject').
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'devotional' LEAST likely to be used appropriately?