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Condone

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. To accept or allow behavior that is morally wrong or offensive.
2. To forgive or overlook a wrongdoing or fault without protest or punishment.
3. To treat something as if it is not serious or worth disapproving of.

History and Origin

The word “condone” comes from the Latin condonare, meaning “to forgive or pardon,” from com- (together) and donare (to give). It entered the English language in the late 16th century, initially used in legal or religious contexts to describe the act of forgiving or pardoning offenses. Over time, its meaning expanded to include overlooking or tacitly accepting behavior that would normally be considered wrong.

Detailed Explanation

“Condone” refers to the act of overlooking, forgiving, or permitting behavior that is typically viewed as undesirable or immoral. It can involve deliberately not addressing a wrong, often by showing tolerance or a lack of objection. While condoning can be seen as an act of mercy or forgiveness, it may also imply a lack of action in addressing the wrong, potentially allowing it to continue. The word is often used in moral, ethical, or social contexts.

Example Sentences

1. The teacher could not condone cheating in the classroom.
2. His behavior was unacceptable, and we cannot condone such actions.
3. The company refused to condone any form of discrimination in the workplace.
4. She could not condone the way he treated his friends.
5. The government should not condone corruption at any level.
6. They chose to condone his minor mistakes because of his past contributions.
7. Some argue that society should no longer condone harmful stereotypes.
8. The judge refused to condone the defendant’s actions.
9. The community did not condone the violent behavior of the protesters.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Overlook – To ignore or fail to notice something, often a wrongdoing.
2. Forgive – To pardon someone for their offenses, without holding them accountable.
3. Excuse – To justify or forgive a mistake or wrongdoing without serious consequences.
4. Tolerate – To allow something unpleasant or undesirable without interference.
5. Absolve – To officially declare someone free from blame or guilt.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Pardon – To forgive an offense or wrongdoing, often used in legal or formal contexts.
2. Forgiveness – The act of letting go of resentment or blame toward someone who has wronged you.
3. Leniency – The act of being more forgiving or merciful than is typical.
4. Indulgence – Allowing or accepting something, especially behavior that would normally be unacceptable.
5. Compassion – Sympathetic concern for the suffering of others, often leading to forgiveness or understanding.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Excuse – To offer a justification or reason for someone’s wrongdoing, leading to acceptance.
2. Overlooked – Something that is ignored or not addressed, often in a forgiving or lenient manner.
3. Endorse – To approve or support an action, which may imply condoning it.
4. Accept – To allow something to happen or exist, even if it’s undesirable.
5. Permit – To allow something to occur, often without taking action against it.

Antonyms

1. Condemn
2. Censure
3. Disapprove
4. Punish
5. Reprimand