Reprieving: meaning, definitions and examples

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reprieving

 

[ rɪˈpriːvɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

legal context

To reprieve means to delay or suspend the punishment of someone, especially in a legal context. This is often used to indicate a temporary relief from a sentence, such as a death penalty or imprisonment. A reprieve may be granted for various reasons, including the pursuit of additional evidence, appeals, or compassion due to extenuating circumstances. While it does not cancel the punishment, it halts its immediate execution.

Synonyms

pardon, postpone, stay, suspend

Examples of usage

  • The governor decided to reprieve the sentenced prisoner pending appeal.
  • The court issued a reprieve to allow for new evidence to be considered.
  • Amid public outcry, the judge granted a reprieve to the defendant.

Translations

Translations of the word "reprieving" in other languages:

🇵🇹 suspender

🇮🇳 रोकना

🇩🇪 Begnadigung

🇮🇩 menangguhkan

🇺🇦 відстрочка

🇵🇱 wstrzymanie

🇯🇵 猶予する

🇫🇷 sursis

🇪🇸 suspensión

🇹🇷 ertelemek

🇰🇷 유예

🇸🇦 تأجيل

🇨🇿 odklad

🇸🇰 odklad

🇨🇳 缓期执行

🇸🇮 preložitev

🇮🇸 frelsun

🇰🇿 ұзарту

🇬🇪 გადავადება

🇦🇿 müddət uzatmaq

🇲🇽 suspensión

Word origin

The term 'reprieve' originates from the Middle English word 'reprieven', which comes from the Old French 'reprendre' meaning 'to take back'. This, in turn, is derived from the Latin 'reprehendere', meaning 'to seize' or 'to catch up'. The usage of 'reprieve' has evolved in English to specifically refer to the postponement of punishment, particularly in the context of legal proceedings. It became widely recognized in the legal lexicon by the 16th century and continues to hold significant weight in discussions concerning justice and mercy. Over time, the concept of reprieving has extended beyond the legal realm to cover general situations where delays or suspensions are applicable.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,669, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.