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Condoning Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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condoning

[kənˈdoʊnɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

approval, tolerance

Condoning refers to the act of accepting or allowing behavior that is usually considered wrong or unacceptable. It often implies a degree of forgiveness or overlooking faults, weaknesses, or violations. Condoning may involve tacit approval, where someone does not openly express disapproval. This term is often used in contexts involving social norms, ethics, and laws. The implications can vary depending on the situation, such as condoning violence, misconduct, or moral failings.

Synonyms

excusing, overlooking, pardoning, tolerating.

Examples of usage

  • The teacher was accused of condoning cheating in her classroom.
  • By ignoring the issue, he was seen as condoning bad behavior.
  • The community was criticized for condoning harmful practices.
  • Condoning such actions can lead to a larger problem in society.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Ethics

  • In moral philosophy, condoning behavior raises questions about complicity and accountability.
  • Ethical discussions often distinguish between condoning and supporting an action, highlighting the nuances of tacit acceptance.
  • Societies may condone certain behaviors through laws and norms, affecting public perception of morality.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often depict characters who condone unethical behavior for personal gain, leading to moral dilemmas.
  • Television shows use storylines involving characters grappling with the consequences of condoning their friends' wrongdoings.
  • In recent years, social media has spotlighted various instances where public figures have been criticized for condoning controversial actions.

Social Psychology

  • Research suggests that people are more likely to condone behavior if it aligns with their personal beliefs or social identity.
  • Studies have shown that group dynamics can lead to the condoning of actions that individuals might otherwise oppose.
  • The concept of 'moral disengagement' explains how people can justify condoning actions they would traditionally consider wrong.

Legal Context

  • In law, condoning certain behaviors can impact the outcome of cases involving negligence or liability.
  • Legal defenses may revolve around whether a victim condoned the behavior, influencing views on consent.
  • Judges sometimes consider whether condoning behavior reflects the broader societal norms when sentencing.

Origin of 'condoning'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'condonare', meaning 'to forgive' or 'to overlook'.
  • It entered the English language in the 16th century, originally related to forgiving debts.
  • Over time, its meaning evolved to refer to accepting or allowing behavior that is generally disapproved.

The term 'condone' originates from the Latin word 'condonare,' which means 'to give up, forgive, or remit.' This Latin term is a combination of 'com-' (together) and 'donare' (to give), indicating the act of giving up offense or overlooking a fault. The word entered the English language in the 16th century, primarily used in ecclesiastical contexts relating to the forgiveness of sins. Over time, its usage expanded into secular contexts, where it came to describe the acceptance of various behaviors, particularly those that are unethical or wrong. The nuance of the term has evolved, with modern interpretations often questioning the moral implications of condoning certain actions, especially in social and cultural discourse.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,632 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.