an absolute discharge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an absolute discharge" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal contexts to refer to a situation where a person is released from all obligations or liabilities, often after a bankruptcy or criminal case. Example: "After the court's decision, he received an absolute discharge from his debts, allowing him to start fresh."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

Campbell was given an absolute discharge.

The Guardian

She was given an absolute discharge by the district judge.

Independent

Shannon's attacker pleaded guilty, but initially received an absolute discharge.

Independent

Alison Saunders, the DPP, says she considered this option and concluded that the outcome would inevitably be an absolute discharge.

The Guardian

She could be given an absolute discharge at a later date.

Independent

If you were to give him an absolute discharge he wouldn't have to pay it".

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

If the case went to court and there were strong mitigating circumstances they may come away with a smaller fine, or even be dealt with by way of a conditional or absolute discharge, but they also risk a higher fine than the fixed penalty and could be required to contribute towards the costs of the prosecution.

The Guardian - Opinion

During this period each of the 56 patients eligible for discharge had at least three Criminal Law Review Board hearings thus ensuring that each patient had the opportunity to be granted a conditional or absolute discharge.

BMC Psychiatry

Moran may be subject to a supervision order, a hospital order or absolute discharge, with no further action taken against her, the judge said.

Independent

Moran may be subject to a supervision order, a hospital order or absolute discharge, where no further action is taken against her, the judge said.

Independent

She will not face a criminal conviction but may be subject to a supervision order, a hospital order or absolute discharge, where no further action is taken against her.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an absolute discharge" in legal writing, ensure the context clearly defines the specific obligations or liabilities being discharged. For example, specify whether it refers to debt, criminal charges, or professional duties.

Common error

Avoid using "an absolute discharge" when a conditional discharge is more appropriate. An absolute discharge means no further action is taken, while a conditional discharge may involve stipulations like avoiding re-offending.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an absolute discharge" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a verb. It signifies a legal outcome where an individual is released from obligations or penalties, as shown in Ludwig AI's examples from various news and legal contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an absolute discharge" is a legal term indicating a full release from obligations or penalties. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, especially in News & Media and Scientific contexts. While the phrase is generally neutral to formal, it's essential to differentiate it from related concepts like conditional discharges. When writing, ensure clarity in specifying the discharged obligations and choose appropriate alternative phrasings like "unconditional release" or "complete exoneration" based on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

full release

A more general term indicating a complete liberation from any constraint.

unconditional release

Emphasizes the lack of conditions attached to the release.

complete exoneration

Focuses on the clearing of blame or responsibility.

full acquittal

Specifically refers to a legal judgment of not guilty.

total absolution

Suggests a complete forgiveness or remission of sins or offenses.

unrestricted dismissal

Highlights the lack of limitations on the dismissal.

complete liberation

Focuses on the freedom granted after the discharge.

definitive clearance

Emphasizes the conclusive nature of the clearance.

final dispensation

Implies an official permission or exemption.

outright exemption

Highlights the exclusion from a rule or obligation.

FAQs

What does "an absolute discharge" mean in legal terms?

In legal contexts, "an absolute discharge" signifies that an individual is released from all obligations or penalties associated with a particular offense or situation. It results in no further legal action or conditions being imposed.

How does "an absolute discharge" differ from a conditional discharge?

While "an absolute discharge" means no further action or penalties are imposed, a conditional discharge requires the individual to meet certain conditions, such as avoiding further offenses, for a specified period. Failing to meet these conditions can result in the original penalty being applied.

When might someone receive "an absolute discharge"?

An individual might receive "an absolute discharge" when the circumstances of the offense are minor, there are strong mitigating factors, or the court believes that any further penalty would be disproportionate or counterproductive. This can occur in both criminal and civil cases.

What are some alternatives to saying "an absolute discharge"?

Depending on the specific context, you could use alternatives such as "unconditional release", "complete exoneration", or "full acquittal". These phrases emphasize the completeness of the release from obligation or blame.