Amnesty - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Amnesty is an official pardon granted to a group of people, often for political offenses, releasing them from legal consequences and restoring their rights. It promotes reconciliation or forgiveness.
Definition:
An official pardon for people convicted of political offenses.
Synonyms:
pardon, reprieve, forgiveness, clemency
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
punishment, penalty, retribution
Common Collocations:
grant amnesty, seek amnesty, general amnesty, political amnesty
Derivatives:
amnestied, amnestying
Usage Tips:
Use "amnesty" when referring to a government's formal pardon for offenses, often political or humanitarian in nature.
Common Phrases:
blanket amnesty, tax amnesty, immigration amnesty
Etymology:
From Greek "amnestia," meaning forgetfulness or oblivion; entered English via Latin and French.
Examples:
- 1. The government declared amnesty for political prisoners last year.
- 2. She applied for tax amnesty to settle her unpaid dues.
- 3. The rebels surrendered after being promised amnesty by the authorities.
- 4. Amnesty was granted to undocumented immigrants under the new policy.