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

His critics say that a man who fired a shot into a crowd deserves no absolution, regardless of his prior service to the country. —Whitney Eulich, Christian Science Monitor, 9 Nov. 2025

Peter has trapped his sibling in a vicious cycle of need, one meant to foster some form of absolution for his secrets. —Hunter Ingram, Variety, 8 Nov. 2025

Needless to say, the current White House occupant, an actual member of the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (though Emmy-less himself), is offering no such absolution. —Bruce Handy, New Yorker, 6 Oct. 2025

But clearly Ray does need some sort of absolution, and his confession to his brother is that first step. —Jocelyn Noveck, Boston Herald, 3 Oct. 2025