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pardon
This term operates on two distinct levels of gravity. In a legal sense, it carries a heavy, formal weight, representing a sovereign act of mercy that wipes away a criminal conviction. It is an official instrument of state power used to rectify injustice or show clemency.
In social interactions, the word shifts to a polite, often formulaic request for forgiveness. It is used to soften the impact of a social faux pas or to signal a lack of understanding in a conversation. While the legal use is a definitive action, the social use is often a ritualized courtesy.
Meanings
To officially forgive a person for a crime or offense, usually by a legal act of grace.
The governor decided to pardon the prisoner after new evidence emerged.
To excuse someone for a small mistake or a social faux pas, often used as a polite request for repetition.
Pardon me, but I did not quite catch what you said.
Phrasal Verbs
pardon someone for something
to forgive someone for a specific action or mistake
Please pardon me for arriving late to the ceremony.