absolute pardon

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "absolute pardon" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in legal or formal contexts to refer to a complete forgiveness or release from punishment for a crime. Example: "The governor granted an absolute pardon to the convicted individual, allowing them to reintegrate into society without any legal repercussions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

First, it must be understood that presidents have used their absolute pardon power in dubious cases from the beginning.

The New York Times

"The petitioners have not conclusively established their innocence, and therefore an absolute pardon is not appropriate," Mr. Kaine said.

The New York Times

After a month in office, in the interests of ending the "national nightmare" of Watergate, he granted Richard Nixon a "full, free, and absolute pardon" for any criminal acts he might have committed while president.

Independent

More than 167,000 people signed the petition – calling for Mr Snowden to be "immediately issued with a full, free, and absolute pardon" – on the government's official petitions website, We the People.

Independent

Acting on the results of DNA testing, Gov. James S. Gilmore III, Mr. Washington's only recourse for appeal, granted an "absolute pardon" in the 1982 rape and murder of Rebecca L. Williams, a Culpeper County homemaker.

The New York Times

Under media pressure, Gov. James S. Gilmore III ordered a DNA test and granted an "absolute pardon" even as his office insisted the state's criminal justice system was far from flawed.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

The governor should grant the Norfolk Four absolute pardons.

The New York Times

Among them were pages from an original copy of the 10-month-old peace accord and an original copy of a document in which Sierra Leone's president granted Mr. Sankoh -- the man responsible for a terror campaign that left thousands of men, women and children killed or maimed -- "absolute and free pardon".

The New York Times

"I have the absolute right to PARDON myself," he tweeted.

Huffington Post

As has been stated by numerous legal scholars, I have the absolute right to PARDON myself, but why would I do that when I have done nothing wrong?

Huffington Post

"The appointment of the Special Counsel is totally UNCONSTITUTIONAL!" Trump wrote Monday, shortly after tweeting, "I have the absolute right to PARDON myself".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about legal or historical events, ensure that the term "absolute pardon" is used accurately to reflect the type of clemency granted, distinguishing it from conditional pardons or commutations.

Common error

Avoid using "absolute pardon" interchangeably with terms like "conditional pardon" or "commutation". An "absolute pardon" is unconditional, while a conditional pardon may require the individual to meet certain obligations. A commutation only reduces the sentence, not the conviction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "absolute pardon" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the object of a verb (e.g., "grant an absolute pardon") or as a subject complement. Ludwig AI examples illustrate its usage in legal and political contexts, indicating a formal recognition of forgiveness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "absolute pardon" is a noun phrase denoting a complete and unconditional forgiveness of a crime by an authority. Ludwig AI analysis indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, especially in news and media and formal contexts. The term's register is formal and professional, fitting official and legal communications. Related phrases include "full pardon", "complete pardon", and "unconditional pardon", though "absolute pardon" emphasizes the lack of conditions. It's important to distinguish it from other forms of clemency like conditional pardons and commutations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

full pardon

Focuses on the completeness of the forgiveness, without necessarily emphasizing its unconditional nature.

complete pardon

Highlights the thoroughness of the forgiveness, suggesting no remaining penalties or conditions.

unconditional pardon

Emphasizes the lack of conditions attached to the forgiveness, making it straightforward and unrestricted.

full and unconditional pardon

Combines both completeness and lack of conditions for a comprehensive expression of forgiveness.

free pardon

Underscores the liberation from any form of punishment or obligation, signifying complete freedom.

total amnesty

Implies a broad forgiveness extended to a group of people, rather than an individual, and often related to political offenses.

complete amnesty

Refers to a broad and thorough forgiveness, typically for political offenses committed by a group.

official exoneration

Shifts the focus to the clearing of one's name and reputation, rather than just forgiving a crime.

executive clemency

Refers to the act of mercy or leniency by an executive authority, which can include a pardon.

grant of impunity

Emphasizes the exemption from punishment or legal consequences, allowing one to act without fear of reprisal.

FAQs

What is the difference between an "absolute pardon" and a conditional pardon?

An "absolute pardon" is a complete and unconditional forgiveness for a crime, restoring all rights and privileges. A conditional pardon, on the other hand, comes with specific requirements or restrictions that the individual must meet to maintain the pardon. For example, the person might be required to perform community service or maintain good behavior.

When might a government official grant an "absolute pardon"?

An "absolute pardon" might be granted when there's evidence of wrongful conviction, in cases where the individual has demonstrated significant rehabilitation, or when the pardon serves a larger public interest, such as promoting reconciliation or correcting past injustices.

What are some phrases similar to "absolute pardon"?

Alternatives to "absolute pardon" include "full pardon", "complete pardon", or "unconditional pardon". These phrases all convey the idea of complete and unrestricted forgiveness.

Does an "absolute pardon" erase the conviction record?

Yes, an "absolute pardon" typically erases the conviction record and restores all rights and privileges lost as a result of the conviction. This means the individual can vote, hold public office, and own firearms, among other things. However, the specific effects may vary depending on the jurisdiction.