sentence
This word operates on two entirely different planes of human order: the order of language and the order of law. In linguistics, it represents a complete unit of thought, a building block of communication that possesses a beginning and an end. It carries a neutral, structural feeling associated with learning, writing, and clarity. In a legal context, the word takes on a heavy, restrictive weight. It shifts from a tool of expression to a tool of confinement. Here, the word evokes a sense of finality and inevitability, marking the transition from a trial to the actual experience of punishment.
Countable when referring to individual strings of words in a book or a specific term of imprisonment. Uncountable when discussing the general concept of sentencing in a legal system.
Meanings
A set of words that is complete in itself, typically containing a subject and predicate, conveying a statement, question, exclamation, or command.
"The teacher asked the students to write a sentence about their summer."
The punishment assigned to a defendant found guilty by a court, typically in a criminal case.
"The judge handed down a life sentence without parole."
To declare the punishment decided for an offender.
"The court sentenced the thief to six months in prison."