WordGarden.ioconfession
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /kənfˈɛʃən/
US
- /kənˈfɛʃən/
Meanings
Noun
an admission or disclosure of something true, private, or wrong
a statement admitting guilt for a crime or offense
the religious act of admitting sins, especially to a priest
More meaningsFewer meanings
a formal statement of religious beliefs
Beyond the definition
A confession isn't just about admitting you ate the last cookie—though it certainly can be! It is a serious acknowledgment of an action or truth, often one that was previously hidden. Think of a detective questioning a suspect; the police are hoping for a confession to close the case. But confessions aren't always about crime. You might offer a heartfelt confession to a friend about a secret fear or a past mistake, seeking understanding and relief. At its core, to confess is to declare something truthfully and openly.
A confession is a formal admission of guilt, wrongdoing, or even a deeply held religious belief. It is more than just a casual remark; it carries weight, often involving moral implications and a desire for absolution. Consider the tradition of a priest hearing confessions—these are spiritual disclosures meant to seek forgiveness and cleanse the soul.
However, the term isn't limited to the courtroom or the cathedral. You might make a confession to a loved one about a secret that has been weighing on your heart. Or, you could offer a playful confession regarding a "guilty pleasure," like an obsession with a cheesy reality show. The common thread is the act of bringing something personal or sensitive out of the shadows and into the light.
The word originates from the Latin confiteri, meaning "to acknowledge." It implies sincerity and a willingness to take responsibility for one's thoughts or actions. In a formal sense, "confession" refers to the actual statement made: "The suspect's confession was the turning point in the trial." You might also describe a person or a style of writing as confessional, meaning it is characterized by the raw, honest sharing of private feelings and experiences. Ultimately, a confession is about the power of truth to provide resolution and clarity.
Examples
- 1
Police questioning
After hours of questioning, he finally made a full confession.
- 2
Police report
Her confession to the police surprised even her closest friends.
- 3
Workplace disclosure
His confession that he wanted to quit changed the mood of the meeting.
- 4
Legal pressure
The judge ruled that the confession had been forced.
- Phrasea forced confession
one made because of pressure or threats
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Casual admission
Quick confession: I still sleep with the window open in winter.
- Usage
"Confession:" can introduce something personal, often in a light or honest way
- 6
Religious practice
She went to confession the night before Easter.
- Phrasego to confession
go to a priest to admit your sins
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- admission of guilt
- owning up
- mea culpa
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- make a confession
- full confession
- false confession
- signed confession
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- confessionnoun
Forms
- confessionspluralnoun