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Damnation: meaning, definitions and examples

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damnation

 

[dæmˈneɪʃən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

eternal punishment

The state of being condemned to eternal punishment in hell.

Synonyms

condemnation, doom, perdition.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
damnation

Damnation is commonly used in a religious context to describe the eternal punishment and suffering of a soul condemned to hell. It can also be used more generally to express extreme disapproval or curse.

  • She feared damnation for her sins
  • The preacher spoke about eternal damnation
condemnation

Condemnation is often used in both legal and moral contexts to indicate strong disapproval, judgment, or a declaration that someone is wrong or guilty. It's typically more formal and less severe than 'damnation'.

  • The court's condemnation of the criminal was stern
  • Her actions received widespread condemnation
doom

Doom refers to an inevitable, often tragic, fate or destiny. It is used in both literal and metaphorical contexts to denote something that will end badly. The word carries a sense of certainty and sometimes an ominous tone.

  • The city was saved from doom by the hero
  • Facing certain doom, they chose to fight back
perdition

Perdition is another word used in religious contexts, similar to 'damnation', specifically describing a state of eternal punishment and ruin in hell. It is a more archaic term and less commonly used in modern language.

  • His soul was destined for perdition
  • The priest warned of the perils of perdition

Examples of usage

  • He feared the damnation of his soul.
  • The preacher warned of the consequences of damnation.
Context #2 | Noun

strong condemnation

The action of expressing strong disapproval or condemnation.

Synonyms

censure, condemnation, denunciation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
damnation

Used in a religious or highly emotional context to refer to the state of being condemned to eternal punishment.

  • He feared damnation for his sins.
  • The preacher spoke about the damnation of souls.
condemnation

Used to express strong disapproval or punishment, general in nature and applicable in various situations, both formal and informal.

  • The organization's actions faced widespread condemnation.
  • He received condemnation from the community for his actions.
denunciation

Used to publicly accuse or criticize someone or something, often in a formal or dramatic manner.

  • There was an official denunciation of the corrupt practices within the government.
  • Her denunciation of the company's policies caused quite a stir.
censure

Used in formal or official situations to express strong disapproval, often by a person in authority or a committee.

  • The senator faced censure from his colleagues for his inappropriate behavior.
  • The board voted to censure the CEO for the company's financial losses.

Examples of usage

  • The film received damnation from critics.
  • She faced the damnation of public opinion.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • Originates from the Latin word 'damnatio', meaning 'condemnation' or 'to damage'.
  • The English word has been used since the 14th century in both religious and literary contexts.
  • It evolved in use through Old French, where it carried similar meanings related to punishment.

Religion

  • In many religions, damnation is viewed as a consequence of moral failure or rejecting divine guidance.
  • Christian doctrine often describes damnation as separation from God, particularly after death.
  • The concept varies widely among religions and can include both eternal punishment and temporary suffering.

Literature

  • Prominent in classic literary works, such as Dante Alighieri's 'Inferno', where different levels of hell represent forms of damnation.
  • Many authors explore themes of redemption versus damnation, prompting readers to reflect on morality.
  • The idea has influenced various genres, including horror and Gothic literature, highlighting the conflict between good and evil.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers have debated the moral implications of damnation, questioning justice and the existence of free will.
  • Ideas of reward versus punishment raise ethical questions about how societies create systems of morality.
  • Existentialists argue that feelings of damnation can stem from one's own choices and the resulting regrets.

Pop Culture

  • Damnation has been a common theme in movies and TV shows, often depicting struggles between good and evil.
  • Songs and albums frequently use the concept to express feelings of despair or the consequences of one's actions.
  • Video games often present players with choices that can lead to paths of redemption or damnation.

Translations

Translations of the word "damnation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 condenação

🇮🇳 अभिशाप

🇩🇪 Verdammnis

🇮🇩 kutukan

🇺🇦 прокляття

🇵🇱 potępienie

🇯🇵 呪い (noroi)

🇫🇷 damnation

🇪🇸 condenación

🇹🇷 lanet

🇰🇷 저주 (jeoju)

🇸🇦 لعنة (la'na)

🇨🇿 zatracení

🇸🇰 zatratenie

🇨🇳 诅咒 (zǔzhòu)

🇸🇮 prekletstvo

🇮🇸 fordæming

🇰🇿 қарғыс

🇬🇪 წყევლა (ts'vela)

🇦🇿 lənət

🇲🇽 condenación

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,572, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.