Abjure vs. adjure

What does abjure mean?

Abjure is a verb that means to renounce or deny a belief, cause or claim, often under oath. Abjure can also be used to declare one is abandoning a place permanently.

For example:

• After being found guilty, the woman was permitted to abjure the realm rather than go to prison.

• She abjured her allegiance to the cause.

What does adjure mean?

Adjure is a verb that means to urge, persuade or request someone to do something earnestly.

Using adjure to mean abhor, detest or require is incorrect usage.

For example:

• The judge adjured the jury to consider the evidence carefully.

• I adjure you not to tell anyone about what you saw today.

What’s the difference between abjure and adjure?

Abjure means to renounce or deny a claim or to declare one’s abandonment of a place while adjure means one earnestly urges someone to do something.

For example:

• I adjure you to abjure the realm rather than face the consequences.