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confess

[kənˈfɛs]

confess Definition

  • 1admit or acknowledge something reluctantly, typically because one feels slightly ashamed or embarrassed
  • 2declare one's sins formally to a priest
  • 3admit or acknowledge a crime to the police or in court

Using confess: Examples

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

  • Example

    He confessed his love for her.

  • Example

    She confessed that she had stolen the money.

  • Example

    The prisoner confessed to the murder.

  • Example

    I must confess that I don't know the answer.

confess Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for confess

Antonyms for confess

Idioms Using confess

  • confess (to) one's sins

    admit to wrongdoing or immoral behavior

    Example

    He went to the church to confess his sins to the priest.

  • reveal everything, especially secrets or embarrassing information

    Example

    Under intense questioning, he finally confessed all.

  • admit to something, especially something one has done wrong or is embarrassed about

    Example

    It's time for you to confess up and tell the truth about what happened.

Phrases with confess

  • a statement of Christian beliefs, especially as presented by Protestant churches

    Example

    The congregation recited the confession of faith together.

  • a legal agreement in which a debtor agrees to let a creditor obtain a judgment against them without notice or a hearing

    Example

    The defendant signed a confession of judgment, allowing the plaintiff to collect the debt.

  • an acknowledgment of a mistake or incorrect action

    Example

    The company issued a confession of error and promised to correct the issue.

Origins of confess

from Old French 'confesser', from Latin 'confiteri', meaning 'acknowledge, confess'

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Summary: confess in Brief

To 'confess' [kənˈfɛs] means to admit or acknowledge something, often reluctantly or with shame. It can refer to admitting wrongdoing or revealing secrets, exemplified by 'He confessed his love for her.' 'Confess' also has legal implications, such as 'The prisoner confessed to the murder.' Idioms like 'confess all' and 'confess up' emphasize the act of revealing everything, while 'confession of faith' refers to a statement of Christian beliefs.