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Expiate - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

To expiate means to make amends or atone for wrongdoing, often through actions that show remorse or seek forgiveness. It implies repairing harm caused by one’s mistakes or sins.

expiate

/ˈɛkspiˌeɪt/ /ˈɛkspɪeɪt/

Definition:

To atone for or make amends for wrongdoing or guilt.

Synonyms:

atone, redeem, amend, rectify

Part of Speech:

verb

Antonyms:

offend, sin, transgress

Common Collocations:

expiate sins, expiate guilt, expiate wrongdoing

Derivatives:

expiation, expiatory

Usage Tips:

Use "expiate" when referring to making reparations for a moral or ethical offense.

Common Phrases:

expiate one's sins, expiate past mistakes

Etymology:

From Latin "expiare," meaning "to atone for," from "ex-" (thoroughly) + "piare" (appease).

Examples:

  • 1. He sought to expiate his guilt by volunteering.
  • 2. She donated money to expiate her past mistakes.
  • 3. They performed rituals to expiate their sins.
  • 4. He hoped hard work would expiate his failure.

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