Adjective Formal and respectful
VenerableMeaning, examples and usage
Venerable describes someone or something that commands respect, often because of age, character, achievements or a long history.
Say it: VEN-er-uh-buhl · stress the first syllable
How to use venerable
Use it for a person, institution, tradition or place whose history carries weight. The respect matters: a building is not venerable simply because it is old. In a recommendation for a colleague, ârespectedâ may be a more natural choice because it does not draw attention to age.
Example sentences
Illustrative examples written for this guide.
A person
âThe venerable conductor returned to lead the orchestra at its anniversary concert.â
The description suggests an established, respected figure.
An institution
âThe venerable publishing house opened a new childrenâs imprint.â
A long history and a new direction can coexist.
A place
âThe town held its annual reading beneath a venerable oak.â
For a tree, the word suggests impressive age and presence.
Similar words, different emphasis
- Respected
- The broad choice when you want to express esteem without implying age or a long history.
- Distinguished
- Draws attention to achievement or excellence rather than age.
- Ancient
- Emphasizes great age. It does not necessarily convey admiration.
What is the difference between venerable and vulnerable?
They are different words despite their similar appearance. Venerable is about respect or impressive age. Vulnerable means open to harm or damage. âThe venerable archive is vulnerable to floodingâ uses both: the archive is respected, but its contents are at risk.
References and editorial note
The linked dictionary entries support the word meanings. The example sentences and writing suggestions are Ikigainâs own. This is a language guide, not a personality assessment.