to make restitution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to make restitution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of compensating or making amends for a loss or injury caused to someone. Example: "After realizing the mistake, he decided to make restitution to the affected parties by reimbursing their expenses."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

It is not too late to make restitution.

The Guardian - Arts

They were also ordered to make restitution, but no damage estimates were immediately available.

The New York Times

She will also have to make restitution for the amount of the theft.

The New York Times

And we're also pleased that they're very willing to make restitution".

The New York Times

But open space has been shortchanged for years, and this is a way to make restitution.

The New York Times

Contractors who violate the law can be ordered to make restitution, pay a fine or both.

The New York Times

His lawyer, James J. Brosnahan, has said Mr. Hsu plans to make restitution to victims.

The New York Times

They were ordered to make restitution of $26,000 to the F.D.A.

The New York Times

"We've first have to go after B. Seminara's bond company to make restitution".

The New York Times

Yet until recently, when contractors have been accused of overcharging, they have usually been required only to make restitution.

The New York Times

It is also used to effect an informal settlement, as where a thief agrees to make restitution to his victim.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to make restitution", clearly define what actions or payments are required to fully compensate the affected party. Specificity ensures that the obligation is understood and can be fulfilled.

Common error

Avoid using "to make restitution" without specifying how the restitution will be made. Saying someone needs "to make restitution" is less effective than outlining the specific steps or amounts involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to make restitution" functions as an infinitive phrase, often used as part of a verb phrase within a sentence. As confirmed by Ludwig, it typically acts as the object of a verb, indicating the action of compensating for a loss or wrong.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Encyclopedias

12%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to make restitution" is a grammatically correct and frequently used infinitive phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig. It indicates the act of compensating for a loss or wrong, commonly appearing in news reports, legal documents, and ethical discussions. While alternatives such as "to provide compensation" or "to offer reparation" exist, it's crucial to clearly define the specific actions or payments required to ensure the obligation is well-understood. Avoid vagueness and specify the steps involved when using the phrase. Overall, Ludwig indicates the phrase is widely accepted and understood in various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to provide compensation

This alternative is more general and focuses on the act of providing payment or amends without necessarily implying wrongdoing.

to offer reparation

This alternative is slightly more formal and suggests repairing damage or harm done.

to offer amends

This implies taking steps to correct a mistake or offense, often involving an apology and some form of compensation.

to make amends

Focuses on the act of repairing a relationship or situation after a wrongdoing, not always involving monetary compensation.

to compensate for damages

This is specific to situations where damages have occurred and focuses on providing compensation to cover those losses.

to pay damages

This is a direct and legally-oriented phrase indicating the payment of compensation for harm or loss.

to redress grievances

This alternative refers to correcting or setting right what is unfair or wrong, addressing complaints or injustices.

to reimburse

This alternative refers specifically to repaying money that has been spent or lost.

to indemnify

This is a legal term meaning to protect someone against financial loss or liability.

to atone for wrongdoing

This phrase emphasizes remorse and making amends for a moral or ethical transgression.

FAQs

What does it mean "to make restitution"?

To "make restitution" means to compensate someone for loss, damage, or injury caused. It often involves paying money or performing actions to correct the harm done.

When is someone required "to make restitution"?

A person is typically required "to make restitution" as a result of a legal judgment, settlement, or ethical obligation, particularly in cases of theft, fraud, or damage to property.

What are some alternatives to "to make restitution"?

Alternatives include "to provide compensation", "to offer reparation", or "to make amends", each with slightly different connotations depending on the context.

How is "to make restitution" different from "to pay damages"?

While both involve compensation, "to make restitution" often applies more broadly to correcting a wrong, whereas "to pay damages" typically refers specifically to monetary compensation awarded in a legal case.