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Koinonia

n. kind, thoughtful formal

What it means

Close fellowship and shared spiritual participation within a Christian community.

Reach for it when using the theological term for communal participation, not generic friendliness

The retreat fostered koinonia through shared meals, prayer, and service.

Words to choose between 5

By register, from playful at the top to literary at the bottom. Tap a word to see when it fits.
everyday
warm
professional
formal

  • everyday

    community

    Fits when the group and its relationships need plain language

    Careful Community can exist without shared spiritual participation.

  • warm

    fellowship

    Fits when shared life and mutual support in a faith community are central

    Careful Fellowship also means companionship or a funded academic post.

  • warm

    shared life

    Fits when daily mutual participation is being explained

    Careful Shared life is a paraphrase and omits the term's theological history.

  • professional

    solidarity

    Fits when mutual commitment becomes practical support

    Careful Solidarity is often political and does not carry sacramental meaning.

  • formal

    communion

    Fits when spiritual participation and unity are intended

    Careful Communion can refer specifically to the Eucharist and may narrow the meaning.

Opposites 3

  • alienation
  • division
  • isolation

Common phrases 3

  • Christian koinonia

    Christian koinonia shaped how the congregation shared resources.

  • spirit of koinonia

    A spirit of koinonia grew through meals prepared together.

  • practice of koinonia

    The practice of koinonia joined worship with material care.

Usage notes

Keep in mind

Koinonia is a Greek theological term used especially in Christianity. Fellowship is an incomplete translation.

Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Updated