Exalt vs. Exult

Attribute	Exalt	Exult
Meaning	To praise or glorify	To show or feel elation or jubilation
Emotion	Respect or admiration	Joy or happiness
Usage	Often used in religious or formal contexts	Used in everyday language to express happiness
Connotation	Positive and reverential	Positive and celebratory

Definition and Usage

Exalt and exult are two words that are often confused due to their similar spellings and pronunciations. However, they have distinct meanings and are used in different contexts.

Exalt is a verb that means to hold someone or something in high regard, to praise or glorify, or to elevate in rank or power. It is often used in a religious or spiritual context to describe the act of praising a deity or showing reverence.

Exult, on the other hand, is a verb that means to show great joy or jubilation, to rejoice or celebrate enthusiastically. It is used to express extreme happiness or satisfaction, often in response to a personal achievement or a positive event.

Etymology

The word "exalt" comes from the Latin word "exaltare," which means to raise up or elevate. It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe the act of praising or glorifying someone or something.

On the other hand, the word "exult" comes from the Latin word "exsultare," which means to leap for joy or to rejoice. It has been used in English since the 16th century to describe the act of celebrating or expressing great joy.

Usage in Literature

Exalt is often used in literature to describe the act of praising or glorifying a character or deity. For example, in Shakespeare's play "Othello," the character Iago exalts himself by manipulating those around him to achieve his own selfish goals.

Exult, on the other hand, is used in literature to describe moments of great joy or celebration. In Jane Austen's novel "Pride and Prejudice," the characters exult in the happiness of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy as they overcome obstacles to find love.

Emotional Connotations

Exaltation is often associated with feelings of reverence, admiration, or respect. When someone is exalted, they are held in high esteem or regarded as superior to others. This can create a sense of awe or admiration in those who exalt them.

Exultation, on the other hand, is associated with feelings of joy, happiness, or triumph. When someone exults, they are expressing their elation or jubilation at a positive outcome or achievement. This can create a sense of excitement or celebration in those who exult with them.

Examples in Everyday Language

In everyday language, exalt might be used to describe someone who is highly respected or admired by others. For example, a teacher might exalt a student for their hard work and dedication in class.

Exult, on the other hand, might be used to describe someone who is celebrating a personal victory or success. For example, a sports fan might exult in their team's championship win.

Similarities and Differences

While exalt and exult are similar in that they both involve positive emotions, such as admiration and joy, they differ in their specific meanings and contexts of use. Exalt is more focused on praise and reverence, while exult is more focused on celebration and jubilation.

Both words can be used to express positive emotions, but they are not interchangeable. It is important to use them correctly in order to convey the intended meaning and avoid confusion.