Definition

Noun: * The legally authorized killing of a person as punishment for a crime, typically a serious crime like murder. It is also known as the death penalty.

Usage

• "Capital punishment" is a formal and legal term. It is used in discussions about law, justice, ethics, and human rights.
• It functions as an uncountable noun. You do not say "capital punishments."
• Common verbs used with it include: .

Examples

• The debate over capital punishment continues in many countries.
• Some states have abolished capital punishment.
• The judge sentenced the convicted murderer to capital punishment.
• They are arguing for the reintroduction of capital punishment for the most severe crimes.

Advanced Usage

• "To be a proponent/opponent of capital punishment": To be someone who argues for or against the death penalty.
  • She is a leading opponent of capital punishment.
• "A capital offense/crime": A crime for which the death penalty is a possible punishment.
  • Treason was once considered a capital offense.

Variants and Related Words

• Death penalty (noun phrase): A more common synonym for "capital punishment."
• Execution (noun): The act of carrying out a death sentence. (Note: "Execution" is the act, while "capital punishment" is the legal penalty or institution.)
• Condemned (adj.): Officially sentenced to punishment, especially to death.
  • The condemned prisoner.

Synonyms

• Death penalty
• Judicial execution

Antonyms

• Life imprisonment
• Clemency
• Pardon

Related Phrases and Concepts

• "On death row": The status of a prisoner awaiting execution.
  • He has been on death row for ten years.
• "Cruel and unusual punishment": A legal phrase often used in arguments against capital punishment, referring to punishments prohibited by some constitutions.
• "Moratorium on executions": A temporary prohibition on carrying out death sentences.

Noun

1. putting a condemned person to death