Condemnation
/ˌkɑːndɛmˈneɪʃən/
nounB2
Definition
Condemnation is when people express strong negative judgment about something or someone. It means saying that an action, behavior, or idea is wrong, bad, or unacceptable. This word is often used in serious situations like law, ethics, or social opinion.
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⚡ See It in Action
Strong disapproval or judgment against something or someone
- •The government's condemnation of the violent acts was clear and loud.
- •She faced public condemnation for her dishonest behavior.
- •There was widespread condemnation of the new law by human rights groups.
Legal declaration that a property is unfit or must be taken away (less common)
- •The building received condemnation orders because it was unsafe.
- •After inspection, the house was under condemnation and had to be demolished.
🧲 Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "condemnation" like "dislike," but much stronger and more serious—like saying something is very wrong, not just not liked
- ✓Picture a judge in a courtroom saying someone is guilty and must be punished—that is condemnation
- ✓It's the feeling when a group of people strongly say "this is bad" or "this should not happen"
- ✓Sounds like "con-DAM-nation" → imagine a dam blocking water, stopping something bad from spreading; condemnation stops bad actions by saying "no"
- ✓Remember stories where heroes condemn villains for bad behavior—this is a strong moral judgment
- ✓NOT like "criticism" (which can be mild or helpful), condemnation is harsh and final
- ✓NOT like "punishment" (which is what happens after), condemnation is the act of declaring something wrong or bad
- ✓NOT like "approval" (which means agreement), condemnation means strong disagreement or rejection
🔄 Try Other Words
- •Criticism: pointing out faults or problems (Use when the judgment is less strong or more about advice)
- •Disapproval: showing you do not agree or like something (Use when the feeling is strong but not as harsh as condemnation)
- •Censure: official strong disapproval (Use in formal or official contexts, similar to condemnation)
- •Reproach: expressing disappointment or disapproval (Use when the feeling is more personal or emotional)
🔍 Unboxing
- •Word parts: "con-" (with, together) + "demn" (from Latin damnare meaning to condemn or blame) + "-ation" (a noun suffix meaning action or process)
- •Etymology: From Latin condemnationem, meaning the act of condemning or blaming
- •Historical development: Originally used in legal and moral contexts to mean official judgment or blame; over time, also used for strong social or moral disapproval
- •Modern usage: Used in law, politics, and everyday speech to express strong judgment that something is wrong or unacceptable
💭 Reflect & Connect
•How does condemnation affect the way people behave in society? Can it help stop bad actions?
•Can condemnation sometimes be too harsh? How can we balance strong judgment with understanding?
Fill in the blanks with the correct word:
1.The community showed condemnation ___ the illegal dumping of waste because it harmed the environment.
2.After the scandal, the politician faced public condemnation ___ his dishonest actions.
3.Unlike mild criticism, condemnation usually comes with strong moral ___ or legal judgment.
4.The old building was placed under condemnation ___ it was unsafe for people to live in.
5.People often express condemnation ___ actions that go against their values or laws.
6.When a court issues condemnation, it means the property must be ___ or fixed.
7.Condemnation is stronger than simple disapproval because it often leads to ___ consequences.