Definition

Noun: * A sin committed by a person through their own conscious, voluntary action: This term refers to a wrongful act that an individual personally chooses to commit, in contrast to inherited or inherent sinfulness. It emphasizes personal responsibility and deliberate transgression.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The priest explained that repentance was for actual sins one had committed, not for the state of original sin.
  • In his confession, he focused on his actual sins, such as lying and stealing.
  • The theological distinction between original sin and actual sin is central to many Christian doctrines.

Advanced Usage

• "Mortal sin" and "venial sin": These are categories of actual sin within some Christian traditions, distinguishing between grave sins that sever one's relationship with God and less serious sins.
  • The catechism class discussed how an actual sin could be classified as either mortal or venial based on its gravity.
• Contrast with "original sin": This is the most common and critical usage, where actual sin is defined in opposition to the concept of inherited sin from Adam.
  • The sermon focused on how baptism cleanses original sin, but individuals remain responsible for avoiding actual sin.

Variants and Related Words

• Sin (n.): The general term for an immoral act considered to be a transgression against divine law.
• Transgression (n.): A more formal term for an act that goes against a law, rule, or code of conduct.
• Trespass (n.): Often used in a religious or moral context to mean an offense or sin.

Synonyms

• Personal sin: A direct synonym emphasizing the individual's ownership of the act.
• Voluntary sin: Highlights the element of free will in committing the transgression.

Related Phrases

• To commit a sin: The standard verb phrase used with actual sin.
  • Every person has the capacity to commit an actual sin.

Noun

1. a sin committed of your own free will (as contrasted with original sin)