simple vow: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal, Ecclesiastical
Quick answer
What does “simple vow” mean?
A solemn promise in certain religious traditions, typically Roman Catholic or Anglican, which is made directly to God but without the same canonical formality or lifelong permanence as a solemn vow.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A solemn promise in certain religious traditions, typically Roman Catholic or Anglican, which is made directly to God but without the same canonical formality or lifelong permanence as a solemn vow.
In broader, non-religious contexts, it can refer to any straightforward, sincere, and informal promise or pledge, though this usage is rare.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. The term is equally tied to international Catholic canon law. Usage is slightly more common in British English due to the Anglican tradition also employing the concept.
Connotations
Neutral theological/legal term in both varieties.
Frequency
Extremely rare in general discourse in both regions, confined to religious or historical texts.
Grammar
How to Use “simple vow” in a Sentence
[Person/Subject] + take/make/profess + a simple vow + of + [Object/Promise][Simple vow] + is + made/taken/brokenVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “simple vow” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The novices will simple-vow themselves to a year of service.
American English
- She chose to simple-vow before proceeding to solemn profession.
adverb
British English
- Not applicable.
American English
- Not applicable.
adjective
British English
- The simple-vow profession ceremony was held in the chapel.
American English
- He is in his simple-vow period of formation.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in theological studies, history of religion, or canon law discussions.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Specific term in Catholic and Anglican canon law and religious formation.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “simple vow”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “simple vow”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “simple vow”
- Using it to mean an 'easy promise to keep'. Confusing it with the adjective-noun phrase 'a simple vow' (e.g., 'He made a simple vow to be kinder').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is equally serious in intention but differs in canonical form, duration, and legal consequences within the religious institution.
Yes, in Catholic tradition, lay persons can make private vows (a type of simple vow) to God, but these are distinct from the public simple vows made by members of religious institutes.
The temporary vows taken by nuns, monks, or brothers for a period of 1-3 years before final (solemn or perpetual) profession.
Extremely rarely. The specific dichotomy of simple vs. solemn vows is a feature of Western Christian (particularly Catholic) canon law.
Simple vow is usually formal, ecclesiastical in register.
Simple vow: in British English it is pronounced /ˌsɪmpl ˈvaʊ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌsɪmpəl ˈvaʊ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'SIMPLE' as in 'less ceremony', not 'less important'. A SIMPLE VOW is a serious promise made with a simpler procedure.
Conceptual Metaphor
PROMISE IS A BINDING TIE (a vow 'binds' the person).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary context for the term 'simple vow'?