amnesty

[ˈæmnəsti]

amnesty Definition

  • 1an official pardon for people who have been convicted of political offenses
  • 2a period during which people can admit to a crime or give up weapons without being punished

Using amnesty: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "amnesty" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The government granted amnesty to all political prisoners.

  • Example

    The rebels were offered amnesty if they surrendered their weapons.

  • Example

    The amnesty program allowed people to return stolen goods without fear of prosecution.

amnesty Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for amnesty

Antonyms for amnesty

Phrases with amnesty

  • a limited-time opportunity for taxpayers to pay past-due taxes without penalty

    Example

    The state government announced a tax amnesty program to encourage delinquent taxpayers to come forward and pay their taxes.

  • a government program that allows undocumented immigrants to apply for legal status

    Example

    The proposed immigration reform bill includes provisions for an amnesty program for undocumented immigrants who meet certain criteria.

  • a pardon granted to a large group of people, usually for political offenses

    Example

    The president declared a general amnesty for all political prisoners in the country.

Origins of amnesty

from Greek 'amnestia', meaning 'forgetfulness'

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Summary: amnesty in Brief

The term 'amnesty' [ˈæmnəsti] refers to an official pardon for political offenses or a period during which people can admit to a crime or give up weapons without punishment. Examples include the government granting amnesty to political prisoners and offering amnesty to rebels who surrender their weapons. Phrases like 'tax amnesty' and 'immigration amnesty' denote limited-time opportunities for taxpayers and undocumented immigrants, respectively, to resolve their legal status without penalty.

How do native speakers use this expression?