holy writ: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal, literary, occasionally ironic.
Quick answer
What does “holy writ” mean?
The sacred texts of Christianity, primarily the Bible.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The sacred texts of Christianity, primarily the Bible.
Any text or principle regarded as absolutely authoritative, infallible, or not to be questioned.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in usage.
Connotations
In both varieties, it can carry a slightly archaic or religious tone. The metaphorical use is common in both.
Frequency
Rare in everyday speech; slightly more common in formal writing and academic discourse.
Grammar
How to Use “holy writ” in a Sentence
treat X as holy writregard X as holy writX becomes holy writVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In business, 'company policy is not holy writ' suggests rules can be adapted.
Academic
Used critically: 'He cited the study as holy writ, ignoring contrary evidence.'
Everyday
Rare; used humorously: 'Don't treat my advice as holy writ.'
Technical
In theology, refers specifically to the Bible or other religious canons.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “holy writ”
- Using 'holy write' (incorrect spelling).
- Using it in casual contexts where 'rule' or 'guide' is sufficient.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is not typically capitalized unless it is part of a specific title (e.g., 'Holy Writ' in a religious context).
Yes, it is frequently used metaphorically to describe any set of rules or principles regarded as absolutely authoritative and beyond question.
'Scripture' directly refers to sacred texts. 'Holy writ' can mean the same but is more likely to be used in its metaphorical sense to imply infallibility.
It is not common in everyday conversation. It is used more in formal writing, academic discourse, or for ironic or emphatic effect.
The sacred texts of Christianity, primarily the Bible.
Holy writ is usually formal, literary, occasionally ironic. in register.
Holy writ: in British English it is pronounced /ˌhəʊli ˈrɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌhoʊli ˈrɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “not exactly holy writ”
- “as if it were holy writ”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'HOLY' (sacred) + 'WRIT' (something written). Sacred writing that cannot be argued with.
Conceptual Metaphor
AUTHORITY IS SACRED TEXT (e.g., 'This manual is the holy writ for engineers').
Practice
Quiz
In a metaphorical sense, 'holy writ' primarily means: