sentence

[ˈsɛntəns]

sentence Definition

  • 1a set of words that is complete in itself, typically containing a subject and predicate, conveying a statement, question, exclamation, or command, and consisting of a main clause and sometimes one or more subordinate clauses
  • 2a punishment imposed on a person convicted of a crime

Using sentence: Examples

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

  • Example

    She spoke in short sentences.

  • Example

    The judge passed a sentence of ten years.

  • Example

    He was sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder.

  • Example

    Can you construct a sentence using the word 'apple'?

sentence Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for sentence

Idioms Using sentence

  • do time (serve a sentence)

    to spend a period of time in prison as a punishment for a crime

    Example

    He did time for his involvement in the robbery.

  • get off scot-free (escape sentence)

    to avoid punishment for a crime or wrongdoing

    Example

    Despite being caught red-handed, he managed to get off scot-free.

  • pass sentence (impose sentence)

    to pronounce judgment and impose a punishment on a convicted person

    Example

    The judge passed sentence on the accused.

Phrases with sentence

  • a sentence of imprisonment for the rest of a convict's life

    Example

    He was given a life sentence for the murder.

  • a sentence of punishment by execution

    Example

    The court passed a death sentence on the murderer.

  • run-on sentence

    a sentence in which two or more independent clauses are joined without an appropriate conjunction or punctuation

    Example

    The essay was full of run-on sentences, making it difficult to read.

Origins of sentence

from Old French 'sentence', meaning 'judgment'

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Summary: sentence in Brief

A 'sentence' [ˈsɛntəns] is a complete set of words that conveys a statement, question, exclamation, or command. It consists of a subject and predicate, and may contain one or more subordinate clauses. 'Sentence' also refers to a punishment imposed on a person convicted of a crime, such as a life sentence or death sentence. Common idioms include 'do time,' 'get off scot-free,' and 'pass sentence.'

How do native speakers use this expression?