Definition of Condone
Quick Meaning of Condone
Pretend something bad didn't happen or is acceptable, even though you know it's wrong. To silently approve wrongdoing.
Detailed Definition of Condone
Accept, allow, or overlook behavior that is considered wrong, reprehensible, or morally objectionable without protest or punishment.
How to Pronounce Condone
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress second syllable: kun-DOHN. The first syllable is quick and unstressed. Final 'e' is silent.
Watch out: Some learners stress first syllable (CON-done) or mispronounce final vowel. Correct: kun-DOHN (final syllable rhymes with 'tone').
Origin and Etymology of Condone
From Latin 'condonare' (to give up entirely). 'Con-' (together) + 'donare' (to give). Entered English in early 17th century with meaning of forgiveness without penalty.
How to Use Condone in a Sentence
Each example shows “condone” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The school cannot condone cheating on examinations under any circumstances.”
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“By remaining silent, they inadvertently condoned the unethical practices.”
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“Many governments refuse to condone violence as a solution to political disputes.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Condone
Common Synonyms for Condone
Smart Synonyms for Condone — When to Use Each
- tolerate
- passive acceptance; less formal than condone
- overlook
- deliberately ignore wrongdoing; more euphemistic
- sanction
- officially approve; opposite in implication
- permit
- allow to happen; neutral tone
Common Collocations with Condone
These phrases pair with “condone” in everyday English:
- cannot condone
- refuse to condone
- condone violence
- condone behavior
- condone misconduct
Common Mistakes When Using Condone
Even fluent speakers slip up with “condone”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The government condones the protesters.
- ✓ Correct: The government refuses to condone the violence by protesters.
- Why: Condone requires an object (what behavior/action is being accepted). 'Condones protesters' is incomplete.
- ✗ Wrong: We must condone with the rules.
- ✓ Correct: We must comply with the rules.
- Why: 'Condone' means accept wrong behavior; use 'comply' for following rules/standards.
- ✗ Wrong: She condoned him to break the law.
- ✓ Correct: She condoned breaking the law. / She allowed him to break the law.
- Why: Use gerund after 'condone', not infinitive. Or use different verb structure.
Other Forms of Condone
- Noun: condonation
- Verb: condone
- Adjective: condonable
Frequently Asked Questions About Condone
What is the meaning of "Condone"?
Pretend something bad didn't happen or is acceptable, even though you know it's wrong. To silently approve wrongdoing.
How do you pronounce "Condone"?
The IPA is /kənˈdoʊn/. Stress second syllable: kun-DOHN. The first syllable is quick and unstressed. Final 'e' is silent.
What part of speech is "Condone"?
"Condone" is a verb at C1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Condone"?
Common synonyms include tolerate, permit, allow.
How do you use "Condone" in a sentence?
For example: "The school cannot condone cheating on examinations under any circumstances."