Sacrilege: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to a violation or disrespect of something considered sacred or holy.

• Defacing a religious monument would be considered sacrilege
• Speaking disrespectfully in a sacred place can be seen as sacrilege

Refers to vulgar, irreverent, or obscene language. It may not always relate to religious disrespect but includes offensive speech in general.

• Using swear words in front of children is considered profanity
• His speech was full of profanity, which shocked the audience

This term typically refers to the act of defiling or showing great disrespect towards something sacred or highly valued.

• Vandalizing a grave is an act of desecration
• Destroying a holy book can be called desecration

Often used in a religious context to describe disrespectful speech or actions towards a deity or sacred things.

• Saying something offensive about a religion's god is considered blasphemy
• Publicly criticizing religious beliefs in a harsh way might be seen as blasphemy

Refer to actions that show deep disrespect toward something holy or sacred. It often involves physical acts against religious objects or places.

• Vandalizing a church or temple is considered an act of sacrilege.
• Stealing sacred relics from a shrine is an unforgivable sacrilege.

Describes a generally disrespectful attitude toward things that are usually taken seriously or regarded with respect, such as traditions or beliefs.

• His irreverence for traditional values often shocked the older generation.
• The comedian's irreverence toward political leaders received mixed reactions.

Describe actions that pollute or spoil something pure or sacred. This term can be used in both religious and secular contexts.

• The industrial waste led to the defilement of the once-pristine river.
• Burning sacred texts is seen as a defilement of religious beliefs.

Used when referring to words or actions that show disrespect or scorn towards someone or something. It is often personal and direct.

• Calling someone names in public is a form of insult.
• Painting graffiti on someone's car is taken as a personal insult.