capital punishment
Học thuậtThân thiện
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
- putting a condemned person to death