Synonyms of absolution

absolution

noun

ˌab-sə-ˈlü-shən 

as in forgiveness

release from the guilt or penalty of an offense

the jury's verdict of "not guilty" was absolution in the eyes of the law, but the verdict would always be "guilty" in the court of public opinion

Synonyms & Similar Words

• forgiveness
• amnesty
• pardon
• remission
• immunity
• parole
• remittal
• vindication
• exoneration
• acquittal
• exemption
• indemnity
• exculpation
• impunity
• leniency
• clemency
• commutation
• condonation
• reprieve
• mercy
• commuting

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• punishment
• penalty
• retribution
• conviction
• sentence
• assessment
• imposition
• charge
• fine
• condemnation
• levying
• chastisement
• castigation
• chastening

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of absolution

The point is not that the offender deserves absolution. — The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 June 2026

It is positioned somewhere between an intoxicated confession, a cry for absolution, and a desperate defense. — Literary Hub, 28 May 2026

But absolution—total and final—is an impossible sell. — Steven Gray, Time, 29 Apr. 2026

Believers confess their sins to a priest, receive spiritual guidance and absolution and typically are required to make an act of contrition like saying specific prayers. — Corky Siemaszko, NBC news, 16 Apr. 2026