amnesty
word
Definition
An official pardon given by a government for political crimes or offenses, often for a group of people, forgiving any punishment.
Usage & Nuances
Mostly used in legal, political, or historical contexts; common phrases: 'grant amnesty', 'offer amnesty', 'amnesty program'. Refers to forgiving past actions, not forgetting them. Different from 'pardon' (often individual) and 'forgiveness' (personal). Can also refer to tax amnesty.
Example Sentences
The government announced an amnesty for political prisoners.
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Thousands took advantage of the amnesty program to clear their legal records.
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An amnesty was given to people who returned illegal weapons.
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The country declared a tax amnesty for unpaid taxes.
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After years in exile, the activist returned home when an amnesty was offered.
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The new law grants amnesty to those who confess their past offenses.
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