condone - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
condone Word Meanings
- to overlook or forgive an offense
- to allow something wrong to happen
- to excuse or make allowances for someone's behavior
condone Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
condone Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kənˈdəʊn/
US
/kənˈdoʊn/
condone Word Etymology
con- = together + done = to do; Historical origin: Latin 'condonare' → Old French 'condoner' → English 'condone'. Memory image: Imagine someone putting their arms around a friend who has made a mistake, embracing them and saying, 'It's okay, I forgive you.'
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Condone means to overlook or forgive a fault, or to permit something wrong to continue. It conveys a moral dimension: not just forgiving one lapse, but tolerating ongoing misconduct or excusing it in a way that suggests approval. You might condone a friend's late return if you believe the delay was understandable, or you could be accused of condoning unethical behavior by remaining silent. In everyday use, condone often implies a tacit permission rather than a formal pardon. Learners should watch for collocations like condone a behavior, or condone with silence, and avoid treating it as simple forgiveness.
Usage Reminders
- - Condone often implies tacit moral approval, not a formal pardon.
- - It is risky to use when the act is ongoing or systemic, not just a one-time lapse.
- - Distinguish between forgiving a person and approving ongoing behavior.
- - Look for collocations like condone a behavior or condone with silence.
- - In formal writing, avoid soft language and choose precise verbs.
Common Misconceptions
- Condone is the same as forgive.
- It only applies to serious crimes.
- If you ignore a problem, you are condoning it.
- Condone is always negative and morally condemnable.
- You can condone without any moral implication.
Thinking Differences
Condone in English often signals moral leniency or tacit approval, not just forgiveness; learners tend to treat it as a softer form of 'forgive' and miss the nuance of ongoing tolerance.
Learning Tips
- Remember condone has moral weight beyond forgiveness.
- Watch for collocations like condone a behavior or condone with silence.
- Avoid using condone for a single, isolated lapse.
- Differentiate condone from 'excuse' or 'forgive' in ongoing contexts.
- Practice with real-life scenarios to see tacit approval vs. formal pardon.
- Check context (professional vs casual) to decide if condone fits.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'condone'?
A.Flee
B.Forgive
C.Fix
D.Forget
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'condone' used correctly?
A.She refused to condone his bad behavior.
B.He condone his homework on time.
C.They condone the party last night.
D.I condone to the store yesterday.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is a synonym of 'condone'?
A.Overlook
B.Punish
C.Condemn
D.Accuse
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite meaning of 'condone'?
A.Condemn
B.Accept
C.Forgive
D.Pardon
Step 5: Mastery
How would you use the word 'condone' in a real-life situation?
A.Discussing forgiving someone's mistake
B.Describing punishment for wrong actions
C.Explaining the need for condemnation
D.Talking about ignoring bad behavior
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