Venial, in a religious or moral context, describes a fault or offense that is considered relatively minor, pardonable, or excusable, as opposed to a serious or mortal sin. It implies a lack of grave consequence and does not necessarily sever one's relationship with God or moral principles entirely. The focus is on the degree of wrongfulness; venial offenses, while undesirable, do not carry the same weight as more significant transgressions. The concept provides a framework for understanding the spectrum of human error, distinguishing between less harmful mistakes and actions that have profound and potentially destructive consequences.
Venial meaning with examples
- Missing a work deadline due to a minor illness was considered a venial mistake by her boss. They understood and offered a reasonable extension without serious repercussions. It did not jeopardize her job or future prospects.
- The small amount of time he spent gossiping at lunch was a venial sin compared to the serious ethical breaches within the company. It was a minor transgression not reflecting the serious moral corruption within the organization.
- She made a venial error when she misplaced the office supplies. This was inconsequential. Her efforts and time were much more beneficial to the business, leaving this mistake to be forgiven easily.
- He accepted a small gift from a client. But considered it a venial transgression compared to some of the larger bribes some colleagues had taken to increase the deals.
- The child's minor disobedience, such as being a few minutes late for dinner, was understood by his parents to be a venial offense, not requiring harsh punishment or extensive reprimands. They focused on correction, not condemnation.
Venial Synonyms
excusable expiable forgivable insignificant minor pardonable slight trivialVenial Antonyms
capital egregious grave inexcusable mortal serious unforgivableVenial Crossword Answers
5 Letters
MINOR
9 Letters
EXCUSABLE
10 Letters
FORGIVABLE