be absolved

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be absolved" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is released from blame, guilt, or responsibility. Example: "After confessing his mistakes, he hoped to be absolved of any wrongdoing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Guilt, at least, can be absolved through action.

The New Yorker

My sin would be absolved in the confessional.

The New York Times - Books

Now at least one of us may be absolved.

The New York Times

Yet individuals and institutions cannot be absolved of responsibility.

The New York Times

Now, can Patrick Ewing finally be absolved of some guilt?

The New York Times - Sports

Why should they be absolved from pain and suffering?

The New York Times - Sports

If executives can be absolved of guilt by an agency that apologizes, does that mean anyone can be absolved of anything with a simple transfer of cash?

The New York Times - Books

Finaldi, however, disputed the notion that Mahony should be absolved of any obligation to alert authorities.

Independent

Garzón's defense is that crimes against humanity cannot be absolved by a self-given, retroactive immunity.

The New Yorker

The implication seemed to be that neither boy could be absolved by reference to their youth.

Independent

In view of this, I couldn't help wondering whether I might be absolved from the fine?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be absolved" when you want to convey a formal or significant release from blame or responsibility, often in legal, moral, or religious contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "be absolved" in everyday situations where simpler terms like "be excused" or "be forgiven" would be more appropriate. "Be absolved" carries a weight that is unsuitable for minor infractions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be absolved" functions as a passive verb phrase, typically indicating that someone or something is released from blame, guilt, obligation, or responsibility. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be absolved" is a grammatically sound and frequently used passive verb phrase that denotes the act of being formally released from blame, guilt, or obligation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in various contexts, predominantly in news and media. Its usage suggests a neutral to formal register, employed to convey significant clearances or forgiveness. Alternatives like ""be exonerated"" or ""be forgiven"" offer similar meanings but may vary in formality or specific connotation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be exonerated

Similar to being absolved, but often implies a formal declaration of innocence after an investigation.

be cleared

Suggests the removal of suspicion or doubt.

be acquitted

Specifically refers to being found not guilty in a court of law.

be vindicated

Implies that previous accusations or doubts have been proven false.

be forgiven

Focuses on the act of forgiveness, whether formally or informally.

be excused

Suggests that someone is not held responsible for something, often due to mitigating circumstances.

be pardoned

Implies a formal act of clemency, usually by a government official.

be exempted

Indicates a formal release from a requirement or obligation.

be released from

A broader phrase that can apply to obligations, duties, or responsibilities.

be discharged

Similar to released, often used in legal or formal contexts.

FAQs

How is "be absolved" used in legal contexts?

In legal settings, "be absolved" often refers to being cleared of charges or legal obligations. It implies a formal release from guilt or accountability, similar to "be acquitted" or "be exonerated".

What does it mean to "be absolved" of sins?

In a religious context, to "be absolved" of sins means to be forgiven or granted remission for transgressions, often through confession or repentance. This is related to the concept of "be forgiven".

Can obligations, as well as guilt, be something that one can "be absolved" of?

Yes, "be absolved" can apply to obligations, debts, or responsibilities. It signifies a release or discharge from these burdens, indicating a freedom from previous commitments. In this sense, it's similar to "be released from".

What are some alternatives to "be absolved" that are less formal?

Less formal alternatives include phrases like "be excused", "be forgiven", or "be cleared". The choice depends on the specific context and the degree of formality desired.