pardon - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
pardon Word Meanings
- to forgive someone for a mistake
- an official release from punishment
- a request for someone to repeat something
pardon Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
pardon Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈpɑː.dən/
US
/ˈpɑrdən/
pardon Word Etymology
Root decomposition: par- = from (Latin) + donare = to give. Historical origin: Latin 'pardonare' → Old French 'pardoner' → English 'pardon'. Memory image: imagine someone extending their hand to give forgiveness, as if offering a second chance.
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
Pardon is a versatile word that can function as a verb or a noun. As a verb, it means to forgive someone for an error or offense, often expressed with please pardon me or I beg your pardon in formal or polite contexts. It can also soften requests and apologies, especially in polite or careful speech. As a noun, a pardon is an official act of forgiving or releasing someone from punishment, typically granted by a government or authority, and it may be conditional or unconditional. The phrase pardon me is also used to ask someone to repeat what they said if you did not hear it, or to excuse your own speech politely.
Usage Reminders
- Use pardon in two senses: forgive someone, or an official forgiveness. Use pardon me to interrupt politely or to apologize. Reserve the legal sense for government actions. Do not confuse pardon with forgive in casual everyday talk. Remember the pronunciation par-don with two syllables.
Common Misconceptions
- Some learners think pardon only means the legal act of forgiving; it also means everyday forgiveness.
- Many confuse pardon with forgive and use them interchangeably in casual speech, which can sound odd.
- Pardon is never used in polite requests; actually it is used as a politeness strategy and with the phrase pardon me.
- People assume pardon is only a legal term; in fact it also means a general act of forgiveness.
- Pardon cannot be used to ask someone to repeat something; you should use Pardon? or Could you repeat that?
Thinking Differences
English learners often see pardon as either a formal legal term or a polite everyday verb, but the two senses carry different registers. You may overuse forgive in formal contexts or miss the authorized nuance of pardon in law, leading to awkward sentences like using pardon to mean forgive in casual talk.
Learning Tips
- Identify the two main senses of pardon (forgiveness vs official forgiveness).
- Note the formality: pardon is often more formal than forgive.
- Use pardon me to interrupt politely or to ask someone to repeat.
- Learn common collocations: grant a pardon, obtain a pardon, issue a pardon.
- Practice with legal and everyday contexts to hear the Unterschied.
- Record yourself saying pardons to compare pronunciation with forgive.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'pardon' used correctly?
A.He ate the delicious cake.
B.Can you jump me with my homework?
C.I pardon you for your mistake.
D.She runs every morning.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'pardon'?
A.Punish
B.Blame
C.Condemn
D.Forgive
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym of 'pardon'?
A.Praise
B.Encourage
C.Punish
D.Reward
Step 5: Mastery
How would you use the word 'pardon' in a real-life situation?
A.Jumping over a hurdle
B.Running a race
C.Eating a delicious meal
D.Asking someone for forgiveness after a mistake
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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