Epistle: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is mostly used in religious or historical contexts, often referring to formal letters written by apostles or ancient scholars.

• The Epistle to the Romans is one of Paul's most famous letters in the New Testament.
• He discovered an old epistle in the ancient ruins.

A general term for written communication sent from one person to another. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

• I wrote a letter to my friend who moved abroad.
• The company received a formal letter of complaint from a customer.

A formal or official letter, often used in a slightly old-fashioned or humorous way. It can sometimes have a serious or urgent tone.

• The president received a missive from the ambassador.
• She laughed as she read the lengthy missive from her cousin.

This word is very formal and typically used for important or religious letters. It is often found in literary or historical contexts.

• The apostle Paul wrote an epistle to the Corinthians
• The epistle was preserved in the archives

This is the most general term for a written message sent to someone. It can be used in any situation, informal or formal.

• I received a letter from my friend who is studying abroad
• She wrote a letter to the company to complain about their service

This word is somewhat formal and less commonly used in everyday language. It often implies a rather lengthy or detailed letter, sometimes with a sense of urgency or formality.

• He sent a missive to his lawyer regarding the case
• The general's missive was filled with orders for the troops

Used in formal or literary contexts, often in religious or historical writings.

• He penned an epistle to his followers, instructing them on matters of faith.
• The scholar analyzed the ancient epistle for traces of historical events.

Commonly used in everyday situations to describe a written message sent to someone.

• She wrote a letter to her friend explaining her feelings.
• He received a letter from the college confirming his admission.

Used in formal or semi-formal contexts to describe a written message, often one that is lengthy or official. Can sometimes have a slightly old-fashioned or grandiose tone.

• The ambassador sent a missive to the king requesting an audience.
• Her missive to the board outlined her strategic vision for the company.