condemned
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /kənˈdɛmd/
KK: /kənˈdɛmnd/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that has been declared to be wrong, bad, or unfit, often resulting in punishment or disapproval.
Example
The condemned building was scheduled for demolition due to safety concerns.
Conversation
Did you hear about that old building downtown?
Yeah, I heard it’s been condemned because it’s not safe anymore.
That’s so sad; it used to be such a beautiful place.
I know, but safety comes first, I guess.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
cursed
damned
reproached
Antonyms
blessed
approved
exonerated
noun
Definition
A person who has been officially declared to be guilty of a crime and is punished, often with a severe penalty such as death.
Example
The condemned stood before the judge, awaiting the final verdict.
Conversation
Did you hear about the condemned man who tried to escape from prison?
Yeah, that story is all over the news right now.
It's crazy to think someone would risk everything like that, even with a condemned sentence.
verb
Definition
To declare that something is wrong or unacceptable, often in a strong way.
Example
The judge condemned the actions of the defendant during the trial.
Tense Forms
Past: condemned
Past Participle: condemned
Conversation
Did you hear about that building they condemned downtown?
Yeah, it's a shame because it looked so nice before.
I know, right? They said it was unsafe to enter.
Root Explanation
Condemned is formed from "con-" (meaning together) and "damnare" (meaning to inflict loss or harm). The word originally described the act of passing a judgment that results in a loss or punishment, thus leading to the state of being condemned.
Memory Tip
Think of 'together' ('con-') and 'inflicting loss' ('damnare') — this helps you remember that to be condemned means to be judged in a way that results in punishment or loss.
Visually Confused Words
uncondemned
uncontemned
uncondensed