Commonweal vs. commonwealth

What does commonweal mean?

Commonweal refers to the general public welfare.

For example:

·      Her contributions to the commonweal won’t be forgotten.

What does commonwealth mean?

Commonwealth is a state, nation or similar political unit. It is used in some states in the US, such as Kentucky, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Virginia. Commonwealth can also mean a self-governing autonomous state with a common allegiance, such as to the British crown.

For example:

·      She will represent the commonwealth at this meeting.

What’s the difference between commonweal and commonwealth?

Commonweal refers to the general public welfare with commonwealth is a state or nation.

·      She has been chosen to represent the commonwealth due to her contributions to the commonweal.