venial sin
noun
1
: a sin that is relatively slight or that is committed without full reflection or consent and so according to Thomist theology does not deprive the soul of sanctifying grace compare mortal sin
2
: a minor offense
Examples of venial sin in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Rose’s reinstatement meant he’ll likely be elected posthumously, while Jackson might still be on the outside looking in if the voting committee believes his alleged crime was a mortal sin and Rose’s betting on baseball was a venial sin.
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Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 14 May 2025
In the corrupt world of college football, sign stealing is a venial sin.
—Nick Canepa, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Jan. 2024
Now it’s considered a venial sin at worst.
—Paul Sullivan, chicagotribune.com, 19 May 2021
My reservations have little to do with standard criticisms like awkward performances or clunky production values — venial sins, surely, for new filmmakers trying to find their way.
—Justin Chang, latimes.com, 30 Mar. 2018
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Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 14 May 2025
In the corrupt world of college football, sign stealing is a venial sin.
—Nick Canepa, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Jan. 2024
Now it’s considered a venial sin at worst.
—Paul Sullivan, chicagotribune.com, 19 May 2021
My reservations have little to do with standard criticisms like awkward performances or clunky production values — venial sins, surely, for new filmmakers trying to find their way.
—Justin Chang, latimes.com, 30 Mar. 2018
Cite this Entry
“Venial sin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/venial%20sin. Accessed 27 May. 2025.
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