Pass sentence on Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To officially announce the punishment for someone in a court of law after they have been found guilty.
Usage & Nuances
Formal/legal phrase used in court contexts, usually by a judge. Collocates with 'the judge', 'the court', or a judge's name. Not interchangeable with 'sentenced' as a verb in all cases; 'pass sentence on' emphasizes the act of announcing the punishment.
Example Sentences
The judge passed sentence on the criminal.
basic
After the trial, the court passed sentence on the defendant.
basic
They waited anxiously for the judge to pass sentence on them.
basic
It took the judge an hour to pass sentence on all the suspects involved.
natural
Many people gathered outside to hear whether the court would pass sentence on the politician.
natural
Once the evidence was clear, the judge didn't hesitate to pass sentence on her.
natural