Key Difference – In Honor Of vs In Memory Of
In honor of and in memory of are two phrases used interchangeably although there exists a clear difference between the two. When giving tribute to others, we can either use in honor of or in memory of them. There can be many situations in which these can be used. For example, a monument can be constructed in honor of or in memory of a person. A donation can be made in memory or in honor of a person. How do we discern which phrase to use? Simply, in honor of is mostly used as a mark of respect or in the case of a celebration. On the other hand, in memory of is often used commemorating a loved one. This is the key difference between the two words. Through this article let us examine this difference by paying attention to some examples. First let us begin with in honor of.
What Does In honor of Mean?
When we use the word honor, it signifies a great respect or privilege towards someone. When using in honor of it is important to remember that we are marking this sense of respect of the individual. It can also be used for times of celebration. Let us take an example.
The banquet is held in honor of the General.
In this example, it is clear that a sense of respect, as well as celebration, is assigned to the individual. Some believe that in honor of can only be used for people who are with us. This, however, is not true. In honor of can be used even for the deceased as well. For an example observe the following sentence.
The monument was constructed in honor of the late prime minister.
In such a situation in honor of is used to mark the sense of respect. Now let us turn our attention to the next section.
What Does In memory of Mean?
In memory of is used to commemorate a loved one or someone that we valued who has now passed away. This emphasizes the importance of that individual for us. It can be a parent, a sibling, a friend or even a relative that we treasured very much. Most people make donations to various welfare organizations in memory of their loved ones. Let us observe an example.
She donated a large sum of money to the orphanage in memory of her lost child.
The key difference between in memory of and in honor of is that in memory of cannot be used for people who have not deceased. It can only be used for those who are no longer alive.
As you can see using these two expressions interchangeably is rather questionable. Hence, one should use the correct and most appropriate expression when giving tribute.
What is the difference between In Honor Of and In Memory Of?
Definitions of In Honor Of and In Memory Of
In Honor Of: In honor of is mostly used as a mark of respect or in the case of a celebration.
In Memory Of: In memory of is often used commemorating a loved one.
Where to use In Honor Of and In Memory Of
Tribute:
In Honor Of: This can be used in instances where we celebrate or respect a particular individual.
In Memory Of: This can be used to commemorate an individual.
Death:
In Honor Of: In honor of can be used for people who are with us and also for those that we have lost.
In Memory Of: In memory of is used for those that we have lost only. It cannot be used for people who are with us.
Image Courtesy:
1. Mihály Zichy – Ball in Honour of Alexander II – WGA25974 By Mihály Zichy [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
2. 2013 Slinger Nationals Sign in Memory of Dick Trickle By Royalbroil (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons
