Synonyms aren’t always interchangeable. They can have connotations that may lead to meanings that are differing or even opposing. 

For example, consider the synonyms ‘slim’ and ‘thin.’ While they can sometimes be used interchangeably, ‘slim’ often conveys a sense of attractiveness due to a lack of unnecessary fat; it is usually considered  a compliment. In contrast, ‘thin’ often conveys a sense of unattractiveness due to bones protruding; it is usually considered an expression of concern or even criticism.  

A similar subtle difference characterizes the synonyms ‘honor’ and ‘pride.’ The word ‘honor’ has a positive connotation, especially when used in sentences such as ‘Don’t you have a sense of honor?’ or ‘I give you my word of honor.’ Here, honor refers to a force that inspires and even empowers individuals to act righteously. Though it does involve a concern for how one is perceived, the thrust is on how that concern motivates one to do the right thing. In contrast, the word ‘pride’ has a negative connotation, especially when used in sentences such as ‘Pride comes before a fall.’ or ‘His pride won’t let him admit his mistake.’ Such usages of pride convey vanity and arrogance, which bring to mind an unhealthy obsession with being respected by others. Such obsession may make one act deceptively to look good in others’ eyes or even act  angrily or abusively toward those who don’t offer one the expected respect. 

The Bhagavad-gita (02.34) uses honor in this positive sense — it is meant to motivate Arjuna to stick to his difficult duty as a martial guardian of society, even when that duty is demanding. 

One-sentence summary:

‘Honor’ inspires one to do the right thing out of concern for one’s reputation, whereas ‘pride’ impels one to act deceptively or destructively just for looking good in others’ eyes.

Think it over:  

  • Why are synonyms not always interchangeable? Give an example. 
  • How does honor have a positive connotation?
  • How does pride have a negative connotation?

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02.34: People will always speak of your infamy, and for a respectable person, dishonor is worse than death.

To know more about this verse, please click on the image