Absolve: meaning, definitions and examples

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absolve

[ əbˈzɒlv ]

^{Context #1}

in religion

To absolve means to formally declare that someone is not guilty or responsible for something, or to forgive them for something they have done. It is often used in a religious context, such as absolving someone of their sins.

Synonyms

exonerate, forgive, pardon

Examples of usage

He was absolved of all his sins by the priest.
The priest absolved her of her guilt and she felt a great sense of relief.

^{Context #2}

in law

In a legal context, to absolve means to formally declare that someone is not guilty or responsible for a crime or wrongdoing. It is a legal term used in court proceedings.

Synonyms

acquit, clear, exempt

Examples of usage

The jury absolved the defendant of all charges.
The judge absolved the company of any liability in the case.

^{Context #3}

in general

To absolve can also mean to release someone from an obligation or a promise, freeing them from any further responsibility. It is a more general sense of being relieved from a duty or commitment.

Synonyms

discharge, exempt, release

Examples of usage

She was absolved from attending the meeting due to her illness.
The manager absolved him from completing the task as it was no longer necessary.

Translations

Translations of the word "absolve" in other languages:

🇵🇹 absolver

🇮🇳 मुक्त करना

🇩🇪 freisprechen

🇮🇩 membebaskan

🇺🇦 звільнити

🇵🇱 rozgrzeszyć

🇯🇵 免除する (menjo suru)

🇫🇷 absoudre

🇪🇸 absolver

🇹🇷 aklamak

🇰🇷 면제하다 (myeonjehada)

🇸🇦 يعفي

🇨🇿 zprostit

🇸🇰 zbaviť

🇨🇳 赦免 (shèmiǎn)

🇸🇮 oprostiti

🇮🇸 afsaka

🇰🇿 ақтау

🇬🇪 გათავისუფლება

🇦🇿 bağışlamaq

🇲🇽 absolver

Word origin

The word 'absolve' comes from the Latin word 'absolvere', which means 'to release' or 'to set free'. It has been used in English since the 15th century. Originally, it was primarily used in a religious context to refer to the forgiveness of sins by a priest. Over time, its usage has expanded to include legal and general contexts where the idea of being cleared or freed from guilt or responsibility is applicable.