Words / C1

k-uh-n-DOHN/kənˈdəʊn/

To condone is to treat wrong behaviour as acceptable, often by ignoring it: the school does not condone cheating. Allow is everyday and broader; forgive can be personal and moral, while overlook is close when you let something pass. Condone is common in official warnings. In speech, we do not accept that or we will not look the other way is clearer — you condone a practice, not a sandwich.

Meaning

To accept behaviour that is wrong, or to treat it as if it were acceptable.

Examples

• “The school does not condone cheating.”
• “Silence can condone bullying even when nobody intends to.”
• “The regulator refused to condone the late filing.”

Good to know

condone + noun/-ing. Treat wrong as acceptable. Everyday: allow / overlook. Official register.

Near in meaning

overlook

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