When it comes to officiating a wedding, some may wonder whether to use “officiate a wedding” or “officiate at a wedding.” Both forms have been in use since the 17th century, with the intransitive “officiate at a wedding” being the traditional form. However, the transitive usage has become more common, especially in the United States, in reference to officiating in sports and in marriages performed by friends or relatives ordained online.
Dictionaries of American English now recognize both transitive and intransitive uses of “officiate” as standard, while dictionaries of British English only recognize the intransitive usage. Merriam-Webster.com provides examples of both transitive and intransitive uses of “officiate” in relation to performing ceremonies, serving in official capacities, and acting as officials at sporting events.
The verb “officiate” was adopted into English in the early 17th century from post-classical Latin terms related to performing functions and serving in a religious capacity. Over time, the transitive form of “officiate” became more common, but both forms are now widely accepted.
Whether you choose to say “officiate a wedding” or “officiate at a wedding,” both are considered correct in American English. The transitive usage may sound unnatural to some, but it is a valid form of the verb. Ultimately, the choice between the two forms comes down to personal preference or regional language conventions.
In conclusion, the verb “officiate” can be used both transitively and intransitively, with both forms having a long history in the English language. So whether you officiate a wedding or officiate at a wedding, rest assured that both are grammatically correct.
If you’re interested in learning more about the origins and usage of the verb “officiate,” feel free to explore the resources provided in this article. And remember, language is constantly evolving, so embrace the diversity of linguistic expressions!
