Piously
adverb
In a way that shows deep respect for religion.
He piously bowed his head during the prayer.

Often appears as...
- act piously
- speak piously
adverb
In a way that seems to be very religious or moral, but is possibly fake.
He piously declared that he would donate all his earnings to charity.

Often appears as...
- piously declare
- piously state
Usage tips
Disapproving
adverb
In a way that shows deep respect for religion.
He piously bowed his head during the prayer.

Often appears as...
- act piously
- speak piously
adverb
In a way that seems to be very religious or moral, but is possibly fake.
He piously declared that he would donate all his earnings to charity.

Often appears as...
- piously declare
- piously state
Usage tips
Disapproving
Definition 1 of 2

Religious Ceremonies
Use 'piously' to emphasize reverence during religious events.

She piously lit candles at the temple.
Dignified Actions
'Piously' adds a tone of solemn respect in actions or attitudes.

The monk walked piously with his hands clasped.
Contrast to Casual
Avoid using 'piously' in casual or secular contexts; it feels out of place.

He didn't speak casually, but piously shared his wisdom.
Religious Ceremonies
Use 'piously' to emphasize reverence during religious events.

She piously lit candles at the temple.
Dignified Actions
'Piously' adds a tone of solemn respect in actions or attitudes.

The monk walked piously with his hands clasped.
Contrast to Casual
Avoid using 'piously' in casual or secular contexts; it feels out of place.

He didn't speak casually, but piously shared his wisdom.
Religious Ceremonies
Use 'piously' to emphasize reverence during religious events.

She piously lit candles at the temple.
Dignified Actions
'Piously' adds a tone of solemn respect in actions or attitudes.

The monk walked piously with his hands clasped.
Contrast to Casual
Avoid using 'piously' in casual or secular contexts; it feels out of place.

He didn't speak casually, but piously shared his wisdom.
Quote examples
Donella Meadows
American Environmentalist
The actions of my government are not bearable. They devastate our natural resources and deprive our people. The politicians speak piously while practicing greed and divisiveness. They care nothing for the nation. I want to do more than withdraw my support. I want to tar and feather them.

Quote examples
Donella Meadows
American Environmentalist
The actions of my government are not bearable. They devastate our natural resources and deprive our people. The politicians speak piously while practicing greed and divisiveness. They care nothing for the nation. I want to do more than withdraw my support. I want to tar and feather them.

Example 1 of 1
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