Sacrifice: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone gives up something valuable for the benefit of others, often with a connotation of personal loss or devotion.

• She made a great sacrifice by quitting her job to care for her sick parent
• The soldier's sacrifice was honored by the entire nation

General term for something given or presented, especially in a religious or ceremonial context, in order to show gratitude or devotion.

• She placed her offering on the altar with a heartfelt prayer
• The community gathered to present their offerings during the harvest festival

Refers to a set of established actions or words performed in a specific order, often as part of a ceremony or tradition.

• Every morning, he followed the same ritual of making coffee and reading the newspaper
• The wedding included several traditional rituals that were important to both families

Used in a religious or ceremonial context where something is offered to a deity or a divine entity. Often formal and tied to specific traditions.

• During the festival, the villagers brought fruits and flowers as oblations to the temple
• The priest performed the oblation ceremony at dawn

Used when someone gives up something valuable or important to help others or achieve something greater. It often carries a sense of personal loss or suffering.

• Parents often make sacrifices to provide the best opportunities for their children.
• He made the ultimate sacrifice by risking his life to save others.

Used to describe a person’s strong commitment to a task, cause, or purpose. It emphasizes perseverance and hard work over time.

• Her dedication to her studies paid off when she graduated with honors.
• The team's dedication to the project ensured its success.

Used when emphasizing someone's concern for the welfare of others above their own. It's often seen as pure and noble, focusing on the absence of self-interest.

• His selflessness was apparent when he volunteered to help those affected by the disaster.
• She showed great selflessness by always putting her friends' needs before her own.

Applied in situations where someone behaves in a way that benefits others, even at a personal cost. It highlights a general willingness to help others and is often considered an admirable trait.

• Her altruism was evident when she donated half of her salary to charity.
• Acts of altruism can greatly impact the community's overall well-being.

Use when referring to giving up something valuable or important for the sake of something or someone else, often with a sense of honor or duty.

• She had to sacrifice her career to take care of her family
• The soldiers were willing to sacrifice their lives for their country

Use in casual or general situations where someone stops trying or relinquishes something. It can be neutral or negative, depending on the context.

• I decided to give up smoking for my health
• After years of trying, he gave up on his dream of becoming a musician

Use in situations where someone loses the right to something, often as a result of breaking rules or making a mistake. It carries a negative connotation.

• They had to forfeit the game because they didn't have enough players
• If you are late again, you will forfeit your bonus

Use commonly in situations involving conflict or competition, where one side admits defeat or gives in to the other side. It carries a sense of capitulation.

• After a long battle, the enemy finally decided to surrender
• She had to surrender her passport to the authorities