pardon

Definition

  • noun: the excusing of an offense without exacting a penalty
  • verb: to officially say that someone who is guilty of a crime will be allowed to go free and will not be punished
  • verb: to absolve from the consequences of a fault or crime
  • usually used as '(be) pardoned for'
  • synonyms: indulgence

Examples

  • “He's been in Haiti for the past two months.” “'Beg pardon'? He's been in Hawaii?” “No, Haiti.”

  • She received a 'presidential/royal pardon'. [=a pardon from a president or a king or queen]

  • The group wants the debt of the world's poorest countries to be 'pardoned'. [='forgiven']

Movie quotes

  • (..) My friend, you would be blowing on the embers of a fire which must be allowed to die. Let me write to her. I'm here to see Serozha. I beg your pardon, Your Excellency. No, I've come to see Serozha. Serozha. Oh. My dear little boy. I knew you would come. (..)
    2012 Anna Karenina
  • (..) and this bond can only be broken by a crime against God. I have nothing to say to you. And you have a son. And I'm tired. If I am wrong, I ask your pardon. I don't know what you're talking about, and it's really too late for this. Excuse me, please. Too late. Oh, God! Oh, forgive me! (..)
    2012 Anna Karenina