absolve
Definitions
To formally declare someone free from blame, guilt, or responsibility
免除（罪责、责任）；宣告无罪
(religion) to grant forgiveness of sins, as a priest does
（宗教）赦罪，赦免
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedab- (away from) + solvere (loosen, release) = loosen someone away from their guilt or obligation. To absolve is to untie the moral knot binding a person to blame, setting them free. The noun is absolution — a priest's formal release from sin.
Root solv still carries 42 more wordsUsage Guide
Almost always 'absolve someone OF / FROM something' (absolve her of blame, absolved from responsibility). Formal and often legal or religious in tone — you would not 'absolve' a friend of a minor favor in casual speech.
Example Sentences
- 1.
The court absolved him of all responsibility for the accident.
- 2.
Confessing does not automatically absolve you of the consequences.
- 3.
The priest absolved the dying man of his sins.