Practice Profane with Flashcards, Spelling and Quizzes

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GRE 14 (Graduate Record Examination)

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Sacred and Profane

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Definition of profane

Disrespectful, irreverent, or impious, especially in relation to sacred or holy matters.
"The religious leaders were outraged by the profane behavior of the tourists."

Detailed Meaning of Profane

When an object, action, or language is referred to as profane, it implies a lack of respect for religious, moral, or cultural values and conventions. Profane behavior often involves treating something sacred or revered with contempt or disregard. For instance, using vulgar language in a church or making jokes about a religious figure can be considered profane. Beyond religious contexts, "profane" can also denote actions or language that are disrespectful in a more general sense, such as offensive or indecent behavior. Overall, "profane" emphasizes a violation of the sacred or a lack of respect for established standards of decency and propriety.

Example Sentences for Profane

1. His profane remarks offended the religious gathering deeply.
2. Profane jokes have no place in such a solemn ceremony.
3. Disrespecting sacred sites with graffiti is a profane act.
4. Profane behavior during worship is utterly unacceptable.
5. Her profane attitude towards spirituality shocked everyone.
6. Desecrating a church is considered a deeply profane act.

Origin and Etymology of Profane

The adjective 'profane' has its etymological origins in the Latin word 'profanare,' which is a combination of 'pro,' meaning 'before' or 'outside of,' and 'fanum,' meaning 'temple' or 'sacred place.' Thus, 'profanare' originally meant 'to bring outside the temple' or 'to desecrate sacred space.' As the term evolved, it came to describe actions or behaviors that are disrespectful, irreverent, or impious, particularly in relation to sacred or holy matters. In essence, 'profane' signifies a breach of the boundaries between the sacred and the secular. The etymology of 'profane' highlights its historical association with acts that defile or disrespect the sacred, underlining the contrast between the sacred and the worldly, and the importance of maintaining reverence and respect for the sacred.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective profane:

holy

reverent

sacred

sacrilegious

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Profane

1. Profane language is strictly prohibited within these walls.
2. The comedian's humor often bordered on being profane.
3. Profane art aims to challenge established societal norms.
4. Vandalizing a temple is seen as a highly profane act.
5. Profane gestures can be profoundly disrespectful to others.
6. Profane music lyrics can often spark controversy.
7. She found his profane comments to be deeply offensive.
8. Profane acts within a holy site are viewed as sacrilegious.
9. The film's profane language and scenes shocked viewers.
10. The profane graffiti on the church's walls angered many.
11. Engaging in profane behavior disrupts the place's sanctity.
12. Profane imagery in art may shock or challenge audiences.
13. The profane display offended the sensibilities of many.
14. Repeated profane actions may lead to social isolation.
15. The comedian's jokes were deemed profane by some members of the audience.
16. The priest warned his congregation not to engage in profane behavior during the church service.
17. The author's use of profane language in the novel was controversial.
18. The graffiti on the wall was filled with profane messages and images.
19. The musician's profane lyrics offended some of their fans.
20. The teacher scolded the student for making a profane remark in class.
21. The politician's profane rant during the debate was criticized by their opponents.
22. The museum had to remove an art exhibit because some visitors found it to be profane.
23. The movie was rated R for profane language and sexual content.
24. The company's profane advertisement received backlash from the public.
25. The comedian's profane humor was not everyone's cup of tea.