Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˌsækrɪˈfaɪʃəl/
KK: /sækrɪˈfaɪʃəl/
Definition
Relating to something that is given up or offered, often for a greater purpose or benefit.
Example
The community made a sacrificial offering to ensure a good harvest this year.
Conversation

I was reading about ancient rituals, and they often had sacrificial offerings to their gods.

That sounds fascinating! What kinds of sacrifices did they make?

Mostly animals, but sometimes they even sacrificed food or valuable items.

Wow, I can see how that would be really important in their culture.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
offering
expendable
devotional
Antonyms
selfish
uncharitable
greedy
Root Explanation
Sacrificial → It is formed from "sacer" (meaning sacred or holy) and "-ficial" (from "facere", meaning to make or do). The word "sacrificial" refers to something that is made sacred or offered, often in a religious context.
Memory Tip
Think of something being 'made sacred' ('sacer') through an act of offering or giving up something valuable.
Visually Confused Words
unsacrificial
presacrificial
nonsacrificial
artificial
crucificial
carnificial
surficial
pacifical