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Sin: meaning, definitions and examples

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sin

 

[ saɪn ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

mathematical

A trigonometric function that relates the angle of a right triangle to the ratio of the length of the opposite side to the length of the hypotenuse.

Synonyms

ratio, trigonometric function.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sin

Use 'sin' in the context of trigonometry as an abbreviation for the sine function, which is one of the primary trigonometric functions.

  • To solve this triangle, you need to find the sin of angle A.
  • The sin of 30 degrees is 0.5.
trigonometric function

Use 'trigonometric function' when referring to mathematical functions like sine (sin), cosine (cos), and tangent (tan). It is often used in geometry-related problems.

  • Trigonometric functions are essential in calculating angles and distances.
  • The graph of the sine function is periodic.
ratio

Use 'ratio' when referring to a mathematical comparison between two quantities. It is often used in statistics, mathematics, and various analytical fields.

  • The ratio of boys to girls in the class is 1:2.
  • They were discussing the ratio of sugar to flour in the recipe.

Examples of usage

  • The sine of an angle is equal to the length of the side opposite the angle divided by the length of the hypotenuse.
  • In a right triangle, the sine function can be used to find the length of a side when the angle and another side are known.
Context #2 | Noun

music

A transgression against religious law; a sin.

Synonyms

transgression, wrongdoing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sin

This word can also be used more informally to describe a moral failing or serious error, but still with a sense of heavy moral judgment.

  • She felt like it was a sin to waste food.
  • They considered it a sin to betray their friend's trust.
transgression

Typically used in legal, formal, or literary contexts to denote a violation of a law, command, or duty. Has a serious and formal connotation.

  • The company was fined for its transgressions of environmental regulations.
  • He sought forgiveness for his transgressions.
wrongdoing

A general term often used in both informal and formal settings to describe any kind of unethical or immoral behavior. It does not necessarily carry a religious connotation.

  • The investigation uncovered significant evidence of wrongdoing.
  • She reported the wrongdoing to her manager.

Examples of usage

  • Singing in the church choir is considered a sin by some religious groups.
Context #3 | Noun

archery

The error in aim or direction by a person using a bow and arrow.

Synonyms

error, mistake.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sin

Typically used in religious or moral contexts to describe an action that is considered wrong according to divine law or moral code.

  • Lying to others is seen as a sin in many religions.
  • He asked for forgiveness for his sins.
mistake

Used in everyday conversation to describe a wrong action, decision, or judgement that usually comes from lack of attention or knowledge.

  • I made a mistake on my math test.
  • Forgetting his birthday was a big mistake.
error

Used in formal or technical contexts to describe a mistake made in a calculation, measurement, or judgement.

  • The error in the report led to incorrect data being published.
  • He made an error in his calculations.

Examples of usage

  • Her sin caused the arrow to miss the target completely.

Translations

Translations of the word "sin" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pecado

🇮🇳 पाप

🇩🇪 Sünde

🇮🇩 dosa

🇺🇦 гріх

🇵🇱 grzech

🇯🇵 罪 (つみ)

🇫🇷 péché

🇪🇸 pecado

🇹🇷 günah

🇰🇷 죄 (joe)

🇸🇦 خطيئة

🇨🇿 hřích

🇸🇰 hriech

🇨🇳 罪 (zuì)

🇸🇮 greh

🇮🇸 synd

🇰🇿 күнә

🇬🇪 ცოდვა (codva)

🇦🇿 günah

🇲🇽 pecado

Etymology

The word 'sin' originated from Old English 'synn' meaning 'moral wrongdoing, injury, mischief, enmity, feud, guilt'. It has been used in various contexts such as religious, mathematical, and archery to denote different meanings related to transgression, error, or ratio. The concept of sin has been discussed in religious texts and philosophy throughout history.

See also: sinful, sinfulness, sinner, sins.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,492, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.