“Exalt” and “Exult” are two verbs that, despite their similar spellings and pronunciations, have very different meanings. “Exalt” involves elevating someone or something in rank or praise, often in a formal or dignified manner. In contrast, “Exult” refers to expressing elation or jubilation, typically over a success or victory. Understanding the distinctions between these terms is crucial for accurate and expressive communication, especially in contexts that involve discussions of achievements or emotional responses.
Exalt
Definition:
“Q” means to raise in rank, power, or character; to elevate by praise or in estimation. It is often used to describe lifting someone’s status or praising them highly.
Examples of use:
Professional Recognition: “Let us exalt the brilliance of your achievements and ideas,” the committee said during the award ceremony.
Religious Context: The hymn seeks to exalt the virtues of faith and compassion among the congregation.
Literary Usage: Shakespeare often exalted his heroes through grand soliloquies that highlighted their noble qualities and valorous deeds.
Exult
Definition:
“Exult” means to show or feel a lively or triumphant joy, typically as a result of a success or victory. It conveys a sense of jubilation that is often vocal or demonstrative.
Examples of use:
Personal Success: The professor exulted at being named department chairman, a position he had aspired to for many years.
Sports Victory: Fans exulted in the streets after their team won the championship, cheering and celebrating the long-awaited victory.
Personal Milestone: She exulted upon receiving her acceptance letter to the university of her dreams, her joy palpable and contagious.
While both “exalt” and “exult” involve positive feelings, “exalt” focuses on praising or elevating someone or something to a higher status, often in a respectful or reverent manner. “Exult,” on the other hand, is about expressing intense joy and triumph, typically in response to a personal or shared success. Correctly using these words enhances the effectiveness of communication by clearly distinguishing between acts of honoring or elevating and those of rejoicing or celebrating. This precision is particularly important in formal writing, speeches, and situations where emotions and achievements are discussed.
