What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
exculpating
Example
The evidence presented in court exculpated the defendant from all charges. [exculpated: verb]
Example
The investigation exculpated the employee from any wrongdoing. [exculpating: gerund or present participle]
absolve
Example
The judge absolved the defendant from paying any fines. [absolved: verb]
Example
The priest absolved the penitent of their sins. [absolving: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Absolve is more commonly used than exculpating in everyday language. Absolve is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while exculpating is less common and is typically used in legal contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between exculpating and absolve?
Both exculpating and absolve have formal connotations, but exculpating is more technical and specific to legal contexts, while absolve can also have emotional or spiritual connotations and can be used in various formality levels.
