Basic Details
Word: Condemn
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To express strong disapproval of something or to declare it wrong or evil.
Synonyms: Criticise, Denounce, Censure
Antonyms: Praise, Approve, Endorse
Idioms and Phrases
- Condemn to the gallows: To judge someone harshly, often leading to severe consequences. Example: "He felt he was being condemned to the gallows for a small mistake."
- Jump on the condemnation bandwagon: To join in on criticising something or someone without thinking critically. Example: "Everyone started to jump on the condemnation bandwagon without knowing the full story."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The teacher had to condemn the student's behaviour when he was caught cheating during the exam.
Example 2: Many people condemn pollution because it harms our environment.
Example 3: The judge decided to condemn the unfair actions of the company during the trial.
Fun Fact
The word "condemn" comes from the Latin word "condemnare," where "con-" means 'altogether' and "damnare" means 'to damn or to inflict loss.' It has been used since ancient times to express strong disapproval.
Famous Quote
"It is not enough to condemn the wrong; we must also defend the right." John F. Kennedy
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "condemn" mean?
a) To praise something
b) To express strong disapproval of something
c) To ignore a problem
d) To support a decision
Answer: b) To express strong disapproval of something
2. Which of these is a synonym of "condemn"?
a) Approve
b) Criticise
c) Support
d) Encourage
Answer: b) Criticise
3. Which sentence uses "condemn" correctly?
a) The mayor had to condemn the building after the earthquake.
b) I will condemn the cake at the party.
c) Everyone decided to condemn the sunny weather.
d) She condemned the song and started singing it.
Answer: a) The mayor had to condemn the building after the earthquake.
4. Which idiom means to judge someone harshly?
a) Jump on the condemnation bandwagon
b) Condemn to the gallows
c) Blow off steam
d) Bite the bullet
Answer: b) Condemn to the gallows
5. What is the opposite of "condemn"?
a) Denounce
b) Criticism
c) Praise
d) Decry
Answer: c) Praise
