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Dictionary-enhanced synonyms

Synonyms for “Condone” — 5 Other Ways to Say It

Pretend something bad didn't happen or is acceptable, even though you know it's wrong. To silently approve wrongdoing.

IPA: /kənˈdoʊn/Level: C1Register: formalPart of speech: verb

Meaning of Condone

Accept, allow, or overlook behavior that is considered wrong, reprehensible, or morally objectionable without protest or punishment.

How to Pronounce Condone

IPA: /kənˈdoʊn/ Stress: oO

Stress second syllable: kun-DOHN. The first syllable is quick and unstressed. Final 'e' is silent.

Full pronunciation guide for condone →

5 Synonyms for Condone — Words Similar to Condone

Browse alternative words with their meaning, level, and a real example sentence so you pick the synonym that fits your context.

permit

/ˈpɜːrmɪt/
noun B1

A piece of paper from authority that says you are allowed to do something.

Example: You need a parking permit to park here.

allow

/əˈlaʊ/
verb A2

To say yes to something; to let someone do something or let something happen.

Example: The teacher allows us to use our phones during breaks.

overlook

/ˌoʊvərˈlʊk/
verb B2

To not notice something by accident, or to purposely choose to ignore it. You miss it or let it pass without attention.

Example: It's easy to overlook small spelling errors when proofreading quickly.

excuse

/ɪkˈskjuːs/
noun B1

A reason you give to explain why you did something wrong or late or did not do something expected

Example: His excuse for being late was that his car broke down on the highway.

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

How to Use Condone and Its Synonyms in Sentences

  • The school cannot condone cheating on examinations under any circumstances. C1
  • By remaining silent, they inadvertently condoned the unethical practices. C1
  • Many governments refuse to condone violence as a solution to political disputes. C1

Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Condone

What is another word for "condone"?

Common synonyms for "condone" include: tolerate, permit, allow, overlook, excuse.

What can I say instead of "condone"?

Try one of these alternatives: tolerate, permit, allow, overlook, excuse. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.

Is "condone" formal or informal?

"condone" is generally used in formal contexts. Use it in writing, business, and academic settings.

When should I use "condone" instead of "tolerate"?

Use "condone" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "tolerate" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.

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