Unatonable (adj.): Incapable of being atoned for; that which cannot be expiated, forgiven, or made amends for. This term suggests a transgression or wrong so severe, egregious, or fundamental that no act of reparation, penance, or sacrifice can rectify the damage or remove the stain of guilt. The Unatonable act leaves a lasting, indelible mark, exceeding the bounds of forgiveness within a given system of morality, law, or personal relationships. It implies a fundamental breach of trust, moral principles, or societal norms beyond reconciliation.
Unatonable meaning with examples
- The dictator's crimes against humanity were deemed Unatonable by the international court, leaving the victims and their families with a scar they could never erase. His actions, involving genocide and widespread suffering, exceeded any measure of remorse or reparation.
- For the bereaved family, the drunk driver’s careless actions in the fatal accident were deemed unatonable; no apology or recompense could ever replace their loss. The family would always have the painful truth.
- The betrayal of his close friend felt Unatonable to Marcus, as the damage to their lifelong friendship was done. Even after years, he continued to struggle with feelings of deep resentment for the broken bond.
- The politician’s corruption, involving the theft of resources from a struggling community, was seen as Unatonable by his constituents. Their anger resulted in his expulsion from the government.
- Her repeated lying and manipulation created a sense of distrust between the mother and daughter that was, in the end, determined unatonable. They struggled to trust one another, resulting in separation.