Learn English – Difference between “spirit” and “soul”

differencesword-usage

What is the difference between spirit and soul? Is the word soul used for only human beings? For instance,

He [Descartes] thought the brain worked as a center for the spirits of
the soul.

Best Answer

While you'll likely find no definitive answer, under general usage:
Spirit refers to a non-physical part of a sentient being that is the source of their emotions.
Soul is generally spoken about with greater religious implications, and can be considered an immortal, metaphysical aspect of a sentient being which is able to transcend the body and mind.