condone it

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "condone it" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the acceptance or approval of behavior that is generally considered wrong or inappropriate. Example: "While I understand the reasons behind his actions, I cannot condone it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"I can't condone it.

Independent

"We don't condone it.

The New York Times - Sports

We condone it.

The Guardian

I don't condone it.

The Guardian - Sport

They didn't condone it.

The New York Times

It's another to condone it".

The New York Times

"I can't condone it from either side.

BBC

You can't condone it, but it happens".

The New York Times

That doesn't mean we should condone it.

The Guardian

"I don't think one can condone it but it happened.

The Guardian

"And we will not condone it," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "condone it", ensure the context clearly indicates what "it" refers to. Ambiguity can confuse the message and weaken the impact of your statement.

Common error

Be careful not to use "condone it" when you simply mean to understand or comprehend something. "Condoning" implies an acceptance or allowance of behavior, not just an understanding of it. Instead of "I don't condone it, but I understand it", consider "I don't approve of it, but I understand it."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "condone it" functions as a verb phrase expressing disapproval or unwillingness to accept a specific action or behavior. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It highlights a judgment against something considered wrong or inappropriate.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "condone it" is a versatile and grammatically correct expression used to convey a lack of approval or acceptance of a particular action or behavior. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's frequently used in news and media, while also appearing in formal and business contexts. When writing, it's important to clearly define what "it" refers to and to avoid confusing understanding with condoning. Alternatives such as "tolerate it" or "excuse it" can offer nuanced shades of meaning. Be thoughtful in your construction of the sentence and avoid "apologism".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tolerate it

Focuses on allowing something to continue without interference, rather than necessarily approving of it.

countenance it

A more formal and less common way of saying "condone it", suggesting a reluctant acceptance.

excuse it

Suggests finding reasons to justify or overlook the action.

overlook it

Implies intentionally ignoring the action, often to avoid conflict or complications.

justify it

Focuses on providing reasons to show that an action is right or reasonable.

sanction it

Signifies formal approval or authorization, the opposite of "condone it".

turn a blind eye to it

Indicates a deliberate choice to ignore an unacceptable behavior.

rationalize it

Involves creating explanations to make an action seem acceptable, often when it is not.

support it

Indicates active approval and encouragement of the action.

endorse it

Implies public approval and support.

FAQs

How to use "condone it" in a sentence?

You can use "condone it" to express that you do not approve of or cannot accept a particular behavior or action. For example, "I understand his reasons, but I cannot "condone it"".

What can I say instead of "condone it"?

You can use alternatives like "tolerate it", "excuse it", or "overlook it" depending on the context.

What does it mean to "condone" something?

To "condone" something means to accept or allow behavior that is considered morally wrong or offensive to continue.

Is "condone" a formal word?

"Condoning" is a moderately formal word that is suitable for use in professional or news contexts, but is also used in daily conversation.