venial sin
noun
1
: a sin that is relatively slight or that is committed without full reflection or consent and so according to Thomist theology does not deprive the soul of sanctifying grace compare mortal sin
2
: a minor offense
Examples of venial sin in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
In the corrupt world of college football, sign stealing is a venial sin.
—
Nick Canepa, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Jan. 2024
Now it’s considered a venial sin at worst.
—Paul Sullivan, chicagotribune.com, 19 May 2021
My reservations have little to do with standard criticisms like awkward performances or clunky production values — venial sins, surely, for new filmmakers trying to find their way.
—Justin Chang, latimes.com, 30 Mar. 2018
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Nick Canepa, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Jan. 2024
Now it’s considered a venial sin at worst.
—Paul Sullivan, chicagotribune.com, 19 May 2021
My reservations have little to do with standard criticisms like awkward performances or clunky production values — venial sins, surely, for new filmmakers trying to find their way.
—Justin Chang, latimes.com, 30 Mar. 2018
Dictionary Entries Near venial sin
Cite this Entry
“Venial sin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/venial%20sin. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share