profane places

[prəˈfeɪn pleɪsɪz]
noun phrasepl: profane places
lugares profanos
1. Locations or spaces that are considered secular, non-religious, or lacking spiritual sanctity; areas not designated as sacred or holy
The church distinguishes between sacred and profane places, reserving certain areas only for worship.
A igreja faz distinção entre lugares sagrados e lugares profanos, reservando certas áreas apenas para adoração.
2. Spaces where secular or worldly activities occur, as opposed to religious or spiritual contexts
The marketplace was considered a profane place in contrast to the temple.
O mercado era considerado um lugar profano em contraste com o templo.
This term is primarily used in religious, theological, and anthropological contexts in both Brazil and the USA. It reflects the Western philosophical and religious distinction between the sacred and the secular, a concept that appears frequently in theological discourse, academic studies of religion, and interfaith dialogues. In Brazil, the usage is common in Catholic and Protestant religious education.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
secular placesnon-religious spacesworldly locationsunholy placesmundane spaces
Antonyms / Antônimos
sacred placesholy placesreligious spacesconsecrated groundssanctified locations

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
lugares profanos
Standard term used in religious and academic contexts
Rio de Janeiro
lugares profanos
Common usage in both religious and secular discourse
São Paulo
espaços profanos
Alternative form using 'espaços' is also commonly used
Portugal
locais profanos
Portuguese variant using 'locais' instead of 'lugares'

Related Words

profane languageprofanitysacredsecularsanctuarydesecration

Related Idioms & Phrases

profane ground
unholy ground
secular realm
worldly sphere
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