condemnation

Everyday

1. Condemnation is strong public disapproval: saying clearly that something is very wrong or bad. tree →
2. (law) Condemnation is the act of a court sentencing someone to a punishment. tree →
3. Condemnation of a building is an official decision that it is unsafe and must not be used. tree →

In the lessons

In news and history lessons leaders and countries make a «condemnation» of a war, an attack or cruelty. In stories it shows harsh judgement. Phrases: strong condemnation, widespread condemnation, condemnation of the attack, a statement of condemnation.

Examples

• The attack drew condemnation from leaders around the world. tree →
• The head teacher's condemnation of the bullying was very clear. tree →
• There was strong condemnation of the cruelty to the animals. tree →
• After the flood, the condemnation of the old bridge meant nobody could cross it. tree →
• The prisoner waited in silence for his condemnation. tree →
• The judge's words were a condemnation of the whole plan. tree →
• The accused merchant saw by this time that his condemnation was certain, and tried to allege something in his defence. tree →

Note

Made from the verb condemn (ends in a silent n: con-DEM) + -ation: condemnation, where the n is now heard (con-dem-NAY-shun). Usually «condemnation of» something. Do not confuse with «condensation» (water drops forming on a cold surface): they look and sound alike.

In Jewish tradition

In Isaiah it means being given over to destruction or a curse as a punishment.

Interpretation. The tradition reads this as God's response to Israel's sins in the exile, yet the prophet follows it with a promise of forgiveness.

Examples

• Therefore I have profaned the princes of the sanctuary, and I have given Jacob to condemnation, and Israel to reviling. (Prophets ISA.43.28, JPS 1917) tree →

Note

Made from the verb condemn (ends in a silent n: con-DEM) + -ation: condemnation, where the n is now heard (con-dem-NAY-shun). Usually «condemnation of» something. Do not confuse with «condensation» (water drops forming on a cold surface): they look and sound alike.