expiation

/,ekspi'eiʃn/

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Explanation of "Expiation"

Definition:
"Expiation" is a noun that means the act of making up for a wrong or a sin. It often involves taking steps to correct a mistake or to seek forgiveness, especially in a religious or moral context.

Advanced Usage:

In a more formal or literary context, "expiation" can refer to rituals or practices aimed at appeasing a higher power or deity, especially in religious texts or discussions.

Word Variants:

• Expiate (verb): To make amends or atone for a wrongdoing.
  • Example: She hoped to expiate her mistakes by volunteering at the local shelter.
• Expiatory (adjective): Relating to expiation; something that serves to atone.
  • Example: The expiatory sacrifices were believed to cleanse the community of its sins.

Different Meanings:

"Expiation" primarily refers to atonement for sins or wrongdoings. However, in a broader sense, it can also imply any action taken to make up for a fault, whether moral or social.

Synonyms:

• Atonement
• Redemption
• Amends
• Reparation
• Compensation

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While there aren't specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly use "expiation," you might encounter expressions related to atoning, such as: - "Make amends": To correct a mistake or to apologize. - "Pay the price": To suffer consequences for one's actions.

Summary:

In summary, "expiation" is about the effort to atone for mistakes or wrongdoings, often with a focus on seeking forgiveness.

Academic

Noun

1. the act of atoning for sin or wrongdoing (especially appeasing a deity)
2. compensation for a wrong
   • we were unable to get satisfaction from the local store

Synonyms

• atonement
• propitiation
• satisfaction