variants
or chiefly British judgement
plural judgments
1
a
: an opinion or decision that is based on careful thought
We have to make a judgment about the value of their services.
In my judgment [=opinion], the stock has performed badly. = It is my judgment that the stock has performed badly.
The judgment of the editors is final.
I agreed to let him join us, even though it was against my better judgment. [=even though I did not think it was the best thing to do]
a snap judgment [=a hasty decision or opinion]
value judgments [=opinions about the worth or value of something]
b
: the act or process of forming an opinion or making a decision after careful thought : the act of judging something or someone
Don't rush to judgment without examining the evidence.
It would be premature to pass judgment on [=to state an opinion on] his place in history.
Don't pass judgment on me [=don't criticize me] until you know all the facts.
"Were his policies good or bad?" "I'll have to reserve/suspend judgment on that. It's too soon to know."
2
: the ability to make good decisions about what should be done
Use your own best judgment.
He showed bad judgment. = He showed a lack of judgment.
3
law
: a decision made by a court
The court granted/pronounced a judgment in favor of the plaintiffs.
the judgment of the court
I won a judgment against the bank.
4
formal
: something bad or unpleasant that is thought to be a punishment from God
—usually singular
a divine judgment against sinners
Cite this Entry
“Judgment.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/judgment. Accessed 29 Jul. 2026.
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