clergy - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
clergy Word Meanings
- the body of people ordained for religious duties
- clergymen collectively
- members of a religious institution
clergy Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
clergy Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈklɜːdʒi/
US
/ˈklɜr.dʒi/
clergy Word Etymology
From 'cleric' meaning a clergyman, from Old French 'clerc', Latin 'clericus' meaning 'of the clergy'. Imagine a group of dedicated individuals in robes, gathered to serve their community's spiritual needs.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Clergy refers to the body of people who are officially ordained or commissioned to perform religious duties within a church or faith community. It can mean individual clergymen or the collective group of ordained ministers, priests, rabbis, imams, or pastors who lead services, teach doctrine, offer pastoral care, and oversee rites such as weddings, baptisms, and funerals. In many traditions, the clergy are distinct from lay members and operate within a structured hierarchy or order. The term emphasizes both their spiritual responsibilities and their formal role within a religious institution that serves a community's beliefs, rituals, ethics, and guidance.
Usage Reminders
- The clergy are the group as a whole, not a single person. Use 'members of the clergy' for individuals. Use 'the clergy are' with plural verbs. Distinguish 'clergy' from 'priest' or 'pastor' when you mean a specific role. Say 'a member of the clergy' for one person. In phrases like 'the clergy and the laity', treat them as separate groups.
Common Misconceptions
- Clergy is a singular, countable noun (it is not: the clergy is typically plural).
- All clergy are priests (clergy includes many roles like pastors, rabbis, imams).
- Clergy and religious leaders from other faiths are the same term (usage varies by tradition).
- Clergy refers to individuals you can buy or purchase (not correct; it is a role).
- The clergy are always part of a formal organization (some traditions have informal structures).
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Remember: the clergy is a group, use plural verbs (the clergy are).
- Use 'a member of the clergy' for a single person.
- Pair with 'the laity' when contrasting insiders vs. everyday followers.
- Differentiate from 'cleric' which refers to an individual religious official.
- Common collocations: the clergy, clergy members, ordained clergy.
- Cross-check with specific titles (priest, pastor, imam) when precision matters.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'clergy'?
A.Religious ceremony
B.Ordained religious leaders
C.Holy scripture
D.Sacred ritual
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'clergy' correctly?
A.The clergy cooked dinner for the community.
B.The clergy drove the bus to the park.
C.The clergy repaired the roof of the church.
D.The clergy watered the plants in the garden.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'clergy'?
A.Military
B.Judiciary
C.Laity
D.Medics
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'clergy'?
A.Doctors
B.Celebrities
C.Atheists
D.Farmers
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where 'clergy' would be involved?
A.A teacher leading a classroom discussion
B.A lawyer arguing in court
C.A minister leading a religious service
D.A chef preparing a meal
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
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