Definition

Able to be forgiven or excused for a mistake or wrongdoing.

Example

His actions were considered pardonable given the circumstances.

Conversation

I think forgetting someone's birthday is pardonable if it happens once.

Yeah, life gets busy, and we all make mistakes sometimes.

Exactly! It’s not like it’s something done on purpose.

Right, as long as you make it up to them later, it should be fine.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pardonable → It is formed from "pardon" (from Old French *pardoner*, meaning to forgive) and "-able" (meaning capable of). The word "pardonable" means capable of being forgiven or excused.

Memory Tip

Think of the act of forgiving someone — 'pardon' means to forgive, and '-able' indicates that it can be done. This helps you remember that 'pardonable' refers to something that can be forgiven.

Visually Confused Words