Definition

A temporary delay or cancellation of a punishment or a difficult situation.

Example

The judge granted a reprieval to the defendant, allowing more time to prepare for the trial.

Conversation

Did you hear about the reprieval they granted to the prisoner?

Yeah, I read that it surprised everyone.

It really makes you think about justice, doesn’t it?

Definitely, it shows how unpredictable these decisions can be.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Reprieval is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "prieve" (from Old French *prever*, meaning to take or seize). The word refers to the act of taking back or seizing again, often in the context of delaying punishment or execution.

Memory Tip

Think of 'taking back' ('prieve') something again ('re-') — that's why reprieval means to delay or take back a punishment.

Visually Confused Words