Definition

1. Noun:
   • A grave sin considered to be fatal to the soul: A "deadly sin" is a category of sin in Christian theology that is believed to lead to damnation if not repented. It is also commonly called a "mortal sin," implying it causes a total loss of divine grace.
   • One of seven specific major vices: Specifically, it refers to any one of the seven traditional capital vices or sins considered to be the root of other immoralities.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • Greed is often listed as one of the seven deadly sins.
  • The priest spoke about the dangers of falling into a deadly sin.
  • In the story, the character's pride was his fatal flaw, representing the deadly sin of hubris.

Advanced Usage

• "the seven deadly sins": This is the standard fixed phrase referring to the complete traditional list: pride, greed, wrath, envy, lust, gluttony, and sloth.
  • The painting depicted allegorical figures for each of the seven deadly sins.

Variants and Related Words

• Mortal sin (noun): A direct synonym for "deadly sin," used especially in formal Catholic theology.

  • Forgiveness for a mortal sin requires sacramental confession.

• Capital sin (noun): Another term emphasizing these sins as the source or "head" (Latin: caput) of other sins.

• Venial sin (noun): A lesser sin that does not result in a complete loss of grace, often contrasted with a deadly/mortal sin.

Synonyms

• Mortal sin: A sin causing spiritual death.
• Cardinal sin: Often used interchangeably in a general sense, though it can sometimes refer specifically to the most serious offenses against moral law.

Related Phrases

• "Commit a deadly sin": To carry out an act that constitutes one of these grave sins.
  • He believed he had committed a deadly sin and sought absolution.

Noun

1. an unpardonable sin entailing a total loss of grace
   • theologians list seven mortal sins