Sacred

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1. Definition + Rich Everyday Explanation

Sacred (adjective) = connected with God or a god, worthy of religious worship; or something treated with great respect and protection, not to be violated or changed.

This word carries a deep sense of holiness and reverence — something set apart from ordinary life because it’s divine or profoundly important.

The core religious meaning is about things dedicated to deity: sacred texts like the Bible or Quran, sacred places like temples or churches, sacred rituals. These are seen as holy, untouchable — harming or disrespecting them is a serious offense in many cultures.

The metaphorical use is just as strong today: people call family traditions sacred, personal values sacred, even promises or privacy sacred. It means something is inviolable, deeply cherished — you protect it fiercely because it defines who you are or what matters most. Breaking something sacred feels like betrayal.

In real life, “sacred” signals boundaries and deep respect. Calling something sacred raises the stakes — it’s not casual; it’s profound. People use it to defend traditions (“sacred family time”) or criticize change (“nothing is sacred anymore”).

Examples from the street:

• “Sunday dinner is sacred in our house — no phones allowed” → protecting family bonding time fiercely, shows tradition and warmth
• “To them, that land is sacred” → indigenous person defending ancestral grounds, deep emotional and spiritual weight
• “Nothing’s sacred to these comedians” → laughing about taboo jokes, signals boundary-pushing humor

2. Most Common Patterns

• sacred + noun → describes something holy or deeply respected
• hold/consider/regard as sacred → treat with religious or profound respect
• sacred to + person/group → belonging to or revered by them
• nothing is sacred → everything can be joked about or changed
• sacred ground/site/text → common religious or cultural items

3. Phrasal Verbs

Note: There are no common phrasal verbs directly containing “sacred” — these are related expressions:

• hold dear → cherish deeply, similar to treating as sacred
  Example: “She holds dear the memories of her childhood home.”
• keep intact → preserve without violation, like protecting something sacred
  Example: “They kept intact the ancient rituals for generations.”
• tread carefully → be cautious around sensitive topics, as with sacred matters
  Example: “You need to tread carefully when discussing family traditions.”

4. Example Sentences

1. The temple is a sacred place for millions of pilgrims→ The religious building holds deep spiritual importance for countless visitors.
2. Many cultures hold marriage vows sacred→ Numerous societies treat wedding promises with profound reverence.
3. This tradition is sacred to our community→ The custom carries deep meaning and protection within our group.
4. In comedy, nothing is sacred — they joke about everything→ Humor targets all topics without boundaries or exceptions.
5. The Quran is sacred scripture in Islam→ The holy book receives religious worship and respect among Muslims.
6. Privacy is regarded as sacred in their relationship→ Personal boundaries receive deep protection between the couple.
7. The cemetery is sacred ground→ The burial site demands solemn respect and care.
8. They consider family time sacred on weekends→ Household moments together receive priority and protection during days off.
9. Freedom of speech is sacred in democratic societies→ Open expression holds fundamental, protected value in free nations.
10. The mountain is sacred to the indigenous people→ The peak carries profound spiritual significance for native communities.

5. Personal Examples

1. In the classroom, mutual respect between teacher and students should be sacred→ Polite consideration among educators and learners must remain deeply protected.
2. For many English learners, consistent daily practice time becomes sacred once they see progress→ Regular study sessions gain profound importance for language students noticing improvement.

6. Register: Neutral

✔ Native usage tips

• Natives use “sacred” for both religious and personal values — “My morning coffee is sacred” adds humorous emphasis to something cherished.
• “Nothing is sacred” is common criticism of irreverent humor or change — signals feeling traditions are under threat.
• In serious contexts, “sacred to” highlights cultural ownership — tread carefully to show respect.
• Pair with “hold/regard/consider as sacred” for personal beliefs — sounds thoughtful and principled.

✔ Similar expressions / words

• Holy → more specifically religious; “sacred” works for secular deep respect too
• Inviolable → formal, emphasizes cannot be violated; less emotional warmth
• Cherished → personal affection; “sacred” adds stronger protection and reverence