This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

B1 Noun (plural) #20 most common 14 min read

sins

Top 20

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips sins in 30 Seconds

Explanation sins in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'sins' is a word you might hear in simple stories or religious contexts. It basically means 'bad things' that people do. For example, if a child takes a cookie without asking, someone might say that is a small 'sin' (though usually, we just say it's 'bad'). At this level, you should know that 'sins' is the plural of 'sin'. You use it when you talk about more than one bad action. It is often connected to ideas of 'good' and 'bad' or 'right' and 'wrong'. You might see it in very basic books about religion or in simple movies. Just remember: 'sins' are things that make people feel guilty or things that a religion says you should not do. It is a more serious word than 'mistake'. A mistake is often an accident, like writing the wrong number. A sin is usually something you know is wrong but you do it anyway. For example, 'Stealing is a sin.' If you steal many times, you have many 'sins'.

At the A2 level, you can start to use 'sins' in more specific ways. You might use it to talk about religious traditions or stories. For instance, you might learn that in some religions, people go to a priest to talk about their 'sins'. This is called 'confession'. You should also know that 'sins' can be used for very big mistakes in life. If someone is very mean to others for a long time, they might say they have many 'sins' in their past. It is important to notice that 'sins' is a countable noun. This means you can say 'one sin', 'two sins', or 'many sins'. You will often hear it with the verb 'to commit'. We say 'to commit a sin' or 'to commit sins'. This is like saying 'to do something bad'. You might also hear the phrase 'forgive my sins'. This is a common way to ask for an apology in a religious or very serious way. At this level, focus on the connection between 'sins' and feeling sorry for what you did.

At the B1 level, you should understand that 'sins' is not just for religion; it is also used metaphorically. People use it to describe serious faults in human conduct or major errors in a specific field. For example, 'The sins of the past' refers to historical mistakes that still affect us today. You might also hear about the 'seven deadly sins', which are a famous list of bad behaviors like greed and anger. At this level, you should be able to distinguish between a 'sin' and a 'crime'. A crime is against the law (like speeding), but a sin is against a moral code (like being greedy). You will see 'sins' used in news articles to criticize the actions of big companies or politicians. For example, 'The company's sins against the environment were finally revealed.' This means the company did many morally wrong things to nature. You should also be comfortable using collocations like 'atone for sins' (to do something good to make up for the bad) and 'confess sins'.

At the B2 level, you should be able to use 'sins' to discuss complex moral and ethical issues. You will encounter the word in literature, where it often represents a character's internal struggle or a 'tragic flaw'. The word carries a sense of weight and history. You might use phrases like 'the sins of the fathers are visited upon the children', which means that the consequences of one generation's mistakes are felt by the next. You should also understand the nuance of 'sins of omission' (failing to do the right thing) versus 'sins of commission' (actively doing something wrong). In a professional or academic context, you might use 'sins' figuratively to describe fundamental errors in a system or theory, such as 'the cardinal sins of economic planning'. This usage shows a high level of English because it applies a moral term to a technical subject for rhetorical effect. You should also be aware of the register; 'sins' is more formal and emotionally charged than 'errors' or 'failings'.

At the C1 level, you should appreciate the deep cultural and philosophical implications of the word 'sins'. It is a cornerstone of Western thought, appearing in the works of philosophers like Augustine and Aquinas, and in the epic poetry of Dante and Milton. You should be able to use 'sins' to analyze the moral landscape of a text or a historical period. For instance, you might discuss how a character's 'secret sins' drive the plot of a Victorian novel. You should also be familiar with more obscure idioms and literary references involving the word. The word 'sins' can be used to explore the concept of collective guilt or systemic injustice, such as 'the sins of a nation'. At this level, your use of the word should be precise. You might choose 'sins' over 'transgressions' when you want to emphasize the spiritual or personal guilt involved, or 'iniquities' when you want to sound particularly formal or emphasize the injustice of the acts. You should also be able to handle the word's usage in irony or satire, where it might be used to mock overly moralistic attitudes.

At the C2 level, you should have a masterly command of 'sins', using it with perfect sensitivity to tone and context. You can use it to discuss the most profound aspects of the human condition, such as the nature of evil, the possibility of redemption, and the burden of memory. You should be able to weave the word into sophisticated arguments about ethics, theology, or social justice. For example, you might write about 'the ontological weight of accumulated sins' in a philosophical essay. You should also be aware of the word's etymological roots and how they have shaped its meaning over centuries. Your vocabulary should include related terms like 'peccadilloes' (very minor sins) and 'sacrilege' (a sin against something holy). At this level, you can use 'sins' in highly creative and metaphorical ways, perhaps in poetry or advanced creative writing, to evoke specific atmospheres or themes. You understand that 'sins' is not just a word for bad actions, but a powerful symbol of human imperfection and the perpetual search for moral clarity.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

sins in 30 Seconds

Sins are moral or religious wrongdoings that violate a code of conduct or divine law, often leading to feelings of guilt or a need for atonement.
The word is the plural of 'sin' and is used both literally in religious contexts and metaphorically to describe serious errors in secular life.
Commonly associated with verbs like 'commit,' 'confess,' and 'forgive,' the term 'sins' adds a layer of gravity and ethical weight to any discussion.
It differs from 'crimes' (legal) and 'mistakes' (accidental), focusing instead on the intentional breach of moral principles or social norms.

The word sins is the plural form of 'sin,' a term deeply rooted in religious, ethical, and moral discourse. At its core, it refers to actions, thoughts, or omissions that are considered to be transgressions against a divine law or a set of moral principles. While the word is most frequently associated with theistic traditions—where a sin is seen as an offense against God—it has evolved in modern English to encompass a broader range of human failings and serious mistakes. When people use the word 'sins,' they are often invoking a sense of gravity that goes beyond a simple 'mistake' or 'error.' It implies a breach of a fundamental code of conduct, whether that code is dictated by a church, a society, or an individual's conscience.

Theological Context: In Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, sins are specific acts that violate the commandments of the deity. This can include 'sins of commission' (doing something wrong) and 'sins of omission' (failing to do something right). The concept often carries the weight of spiritual consequence, requiring repentance or atonement.

The priest spoke at length about the seven deadly sins and how they lead the soul astray.

Beyond the pulpit, 'sins' is used metaphorically to describe significant faults in various fields. For instance, in the world of design, one might speak of the 'cardinal sins of user interface,' such as poor navigation or illegible fonts. In this secular context, the word retains its sense of 'forbidden behavior' but applies it to professional standards or social norms. It suggests that the mistake is so fundamental that it undermines the entire endeavor. This versatility allows the word to appear in headlines, literature, and casual conversation alike, though it almost always retains a shadow of its moralistic origins.

Secular and Social Usage: In everyday life, people might use 'sins' to describe past mistakes that they feel guilty about. Phrases like 'the sins of the past' refer to historical wrongs committed by a person or a group that continue to have negative effects in the present. It is a word that carries the burden of history and the hope for forgiveness.

He felt that his childhood sins were finally coming back to haunt him in his adult life.

Culturally, the concept of 'sins' is a cornerstone of Western literature and art. From Dante’s 'Inferno,' which categorizes various sins into circles of hell, to modern films exploring themes of redemption, the word provides a framework for understanding human fallibility. It is a powerful linguistic tool for discussing the complexities of right and wrong. Whether discussing 'original sin' in a theological seminar or 'the sins of bad fashion' in a magazine, the word demands attention because it touches on our shared understanding of boundaries and the consequences of crossing them.

Idiomatic Expressions: Expressions like 'to cover a multitude of sins' mean to hide or compensate for many faults. For example, 'A good sauce can cover a multitude of sins in the kitchen,' implying the sauce hides the mistakes made while cooking the main dish.

The charity work she did was an attempt to atone for the sins of her corporate career.

In many stories, the protagonist must face the sins of their ancestors to find peace.

In summary, 'sins' is a word that bridges the gap between the sacred and the profane. It describes our deepest moral failures and our most common social blunders. By understanding its religious roots and its modern metaphorical applications, learners can use it to add depth, gravity, and cultural resonance to their English communication.

Using the word sins correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role as a plural countable noun and its typical collocations. Because it carries significant emotional and moral weight, it is often paired with verbs that describe the act of committing, acknowledging, or resolving these faults. Common verbs include 'commit,' 'confess,' 'atone for,' 'forgive,' and 'repent of.' Each of these verbs places the 'sins' in a different stage of a moral or narrative arc, from the initial wrongdoing to the eventual seeking of peace.

Action Verbs: When someone does something wrong, they 'commit sins.' When they admit to them, they 'confess their sins.' If they try to make up for them, they 'atone for their sins.'

The monk spent his days praying that his past sins would be forgiven.

Adjectives also play a crucial role in qualifying the nature of the 'sins.' You will often see 'mortal sins' (very serious) vs. 'venial sins' (less serious) in a Catholic context. In secular writing, adjectives like 'past,' 'secret,' 'cardinal,' 'grievous,' or 'unforgivable' are frequently used. These descriptors help the reader understand the severity and the context of the transgressions being discussed. For example, 'secret sins' suggests a hidden life or internal guilt, while 'cardinal sins' usually refers to the most fundamental errors in a specific system.

Descriptive Adjectives: Using adjectives like 'youthful' or 'minor' can soften the blow, while 'deadly' or 'heinous' emphasizes the destructive nature of the acts.

One of the cardinal sins of journalism is failing to check your sources.

The word is also used in several fixed prepositional phrases. 'To live in sin' is an old-fashioned way of describing a couple living together without being married. 'To visit the sins of the father upon the children' is a biblical idiom meaning that children often suffer for the mistakes of their parents. Understanding these phrases is essential for high-level comprehension, as they appear frequently in classic literature and formal speeches. When using 'sins' in your own writing, consider the level of formality; it is a strong word that can sound overly dramatic if used for trivial mistakes like forgetting to buy milk.

Prepositional Usage: 'Sins against' is a common pattern, as in 'sins against humanity' or 'sins against nature.' This indicates the victim or the entity being offended.

The politician was forced to resign after his private sins became public knowledge.

She believed that all her sins could be washed away by a single act of kindness.

Finally, remember that 'sins' can be used figuratively to describe any recurring problem or flaw. In a business report, one might read about the 'sins of the previous administration,' referring to their financial mismanagement. This metaphorical use allows the speaker to condemn the actions with a sense of moral authority. Whether you are writing a story about a repentant criminal or a critique of a poorly designed app, 'sins' provides the necessary linguistic weight to convey serious disapproval.

The word sins is pervasive in English-speaking cultures, appearing in diverse contexts ranging from ancient scriptures to modern pop songs. You will most obviously hear it in religious settings—churches, mosques, and synagogues—where it is a central topic of sermons and prayers. In these environments, 'sins' is used with literal earnestness, discussing the spiritual health of the community and the path to redemption. However, its reach extends far beyond the walls of religious institutions, permeating the very fabric of the English language through idioms and cultural references.

In Literature and Film: From Shakespeare to Stephen King, authors use 'sins' to create conflict and character depth. In movies, themes of 'paying for one's sins' are a staple of the thriller and noir genres, where protagonists often struggle with a dark past.

The detective told the criminal, 'Your sins will always find you out.'

In the news and political commentary, 'sins' is frequently used to describe the failures of institutions or public figures. A journalist might write about the 'sins of the banking industry' during a financial crisis, or a critic might discuss the 'sins of colonialism.' In these cases, the word is chosen for its rhetorical power; it suggests that the actions were not just mistakes, but morally wrong and socially damaging. This usage is common in opinion pieces and long-form essays where the writer wants to make a strong ethical argument.

In Music and Pop Culture: Many songs use 'sins' to evoke a sense of rebellion or heartache. For example, Panic! At The Disco's 'I Write Sins Not Tragedies' uses the word to describe social scandals and personal failures in a theatrical way.

The rock star's autobiography was a long list of his many sins and regrets.

You will also encounter 'sins' in the world of sports and gaming. Commentators might talk about the 'sins of the defense' when a team makes a series of tactical errors that lead to a loss. In video games, particularly RPGs, 'sins' or 'sin points' might be a literal mechanic that tracks the player's moral choices. This wide range of applications shows that while the word has a specific religious origin, it has become a general-purpose term for describing significant failure across almost every human endeavor.

In Everyday Conversation: People often use the word jokingly to describe minor indulgences, like 'eating this chocolate cake is one of my favorite sins.' This lighthearted usage contrasts sharply with its serious theological meaning.

'I've committed many sins against fashion today,' she laughed, pointing at her mismatched socks.

The documentary explored the sins of the fast-fashion industry and its impact on the environment.

Whether you are reading a classic novel, watching a crime drama, or listening to a podcast about ethics, 'sins' is a word that will frequently appear. Its ability to convey both deep moral gravity and lighthearted self-deprecation makes it a unique and essential part of the English vocabulary. By paying attention to the context in which it is used, you can better understand the speaker's intent and the cultural weight they are invoking.

One of the most common mistakes learners make with the word sins is confusing it with 'crimes' or 'mistakes.' While all three refer to doing something wrong, they operate in different domains. A 'crime' is a violation of a legal statute (the law of the land), while a 'sin' is a violation of a moral or divine law. You can commit a sin that is not a crime (like lying to a friend) or a crime that some might not consider a sin (like driving slightly over the speed limit). Using 'sins' when you mean 'crimes' in a legal context can make your writing sound overly religious or dramatic.

Sin vs. Crime: Use 'crimes' for legal issues (police, courts, laws). Use 'sins' for moral, religious, or metaphorical issues (conscience, God, ethics).

Incorrect: The man was arrested for his many sins against the traffic laws.

Another mistake is using 'sins' for very minor, unintentional errors. If you misspell a word or forget your keys, these are 'mistakes' or 'errors,' not 'sins.' Calling them 'sins' can sound like hyperbole (exaggeration), which is fine for humor but confusing in formal or neutral writing. 'Sins' implies a level of intent or a breach of a significant principle. For example, 'forgetting a birthday' might be a 'social sin' in a joking way, but in a serious discussion, it’s just a lapse in memory.

Sin vs. Mistake: A 'mistake' is often accidental or due to lack of knowledge. A 'sin' usually implies knowing better but doing wrong anyway.

Correct: He apologized for the sins of his past, specifically his dishonesty.

Learners also sometimes struggle with the countability of the word. 'Sin' can be both countable (referring to specific acts) and uncountable (referring to the concept of wrongdoing in general). 'Sins' is the plural countable form. You would say 'He committed many sins' (countable) but 'He was born in sin' (uncountable). Mixing these up can lead to awkward phrasing like 'He committed much sins,' which is grammatically incorrect. Always use 'many' or 'few' with 'sins.'

Grammar: Countability: 'Sins' is plural and countable. Use 'many sins,' 'several sins,' or 'three sins.' Never use 'much sins.'

The old man believed that his sins were too many to count.

The cardinal sins of public speaking include being unprepared and ignoring the audience.

Finally, watch out for cultural sensitivity. In some cultures, 'sin' is a very heavy, offensive word. In others, it is used more freely. When speaking with people from diverse backgrounds, be aware that calling something a 'sin' might be taken more seriously than you intended. Stick to words like 'errors,' 'flaws,' or 'shortcomings' if you want to be more neutral and less judgmental.

While sins is a powerful and evocative word, there are many synonyms and alternatives that might be more appropriate depending on the context. Understanding the nuances between these words will help you choose the right one for your specific needs. Words like 'transgressions,' 'iniquities,' 'vices,' and 'offenses' all overlap with 'sins' but carry slightly different connotations and levels of formality.

Transgressions: This is a more formal and academic word. It literally means 'stepping across' a boundary or rule. It is often used in legal or social contexts where a specific rule has been broken. 'Sins' is more about the moral soul, while 'transgressions' is about the act of breaking a rule.

The report detailed the company's many sins (or transgressions) against environmental regulations.

'Iniquities' is an even more formal, often archaic or biblical word. it refers to gross injustice or wickedness. While 'sins' can be small or large, 'iniquities' usually implies something deeply unfair or evil. 'Vices,' on the other hand, refers to habitual bad habits or immoral behavior, such as gambling or smoking. A 'sin' can be a one-time act, but a 'vice' is a pattern of behavior. If you are talking about someone's character flaws, 'vices' might be the better choice.

Vices vs. Sins: A 'sin' is an act (e.g., telling a lie). A 'vice' is a habit (e.g., being a habitual liar). Vices are often the root causes of individual sins.

We all have our sins, but it is how we learn from them that matters.

In a secular or professional setting, 'offenses' or 'violations' are common. 'Offenses' is often used in sports or social etiquette (e.g., 'a minor offense'). 'Violations' is the standard term for breaking rules or laws (e.g., 'parking violations'). If you want to describe a person's moral errors without the religious baggage, 'moral failings' or 'ethical breaches' are excellent, sophisticated alternatives. These terms focus on the human and social impact of the actions rather than the spiritual consequences.

Comparison Table

Sins: Moral/Religious, heavy weight, implies guilt.
Mistakes: General, often accidental, light weight.
Crimes: Legal, involves police/law, objective.
Vices: Habitual bad habits, character-focused.
Transgressions: Formal, rule-breaking, boundary-focused.

The author explores the sins of a society that values profit over people.

He tried to hide his sins behind a facade of respectability.

Choosing the right word depends on your audience and your goal. If you want to evoke deep emotion or discuss morality, 'sins' is perfect. If you want to be precise and professional, 'violations' or 'transgressions' might be better. By having a variety of words at your disposal, you can express the complexity of human behavior more accurately.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In some ancient Germanic languages, the root of the word 'sin' was related to the word for 'being' or 'truth', suggesting that a sin was a 'real' or 'true' offense that had to be addressed.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /sɪnz/

US /sɪnz/

The word is a single syllable, so the stress is on the entire word.

Rhymes With

bins wins pins fins tins gins chins skins

Common Errors

Pronouncing the final 's' as a sharp 's' instead of a 'z'.
Using a long 'ee' sound (like 'seens') instead of the short 'i'.
Adding an extra syllable at the end.
Muffling the 'n' sound.
Confusing it with the word 'since' (/sɪns/).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The word itself is simple, but its metaphorical and theological uses can be complex.

Writing 4/5

Requires careful choice of collocations and an understanding of tone.

Speaking 2/5

Easy to pronounce, but should be used with cultural sensitivity.

Listening 3/5

Common in many contexts, but can be confused with 'since'.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

bad wrong mistake rule sorry

Learn Next

transgression atonement redemption guilt ethics

Advanced

iniquity peccadillo venial mortal sacrilege

Grammar to Know

Pluralization of Nouns

One sin, two sins.

Countable vs Uncountable

Many sins (countable) vs. The concept of sin (uncountable).

Prepositional Collocations

Sins against, sins of, atone for sins.

Adjective Placement

Past sins, deadly sins, secret sins.

Verb-Noun Agreement

He commits sins. They commit sins.

Examples by Level

He said sorry for his sins.

Il a demandé pardon pour ses péchés.

Plural noun.

Is it a sin to tell a lie?

Est-ce un péché de mentir ?

Singular used as a question.

The book tells stories about sins.

Le livre raconte des histoires sur les péchés.

Object of a preposition.

They want to forget their past sins.

Ils veulent oublier leurs péchés passés.

Adjective 'past' modifying 'sins'.

The priest talks about sins every Sunday.

Le prêtre parle des péchés chaque dimanche.

Present simple tense.

Stealing is one of the biggest sins.

Voler est l'un des plus grands péchés.

Superlative 'biggest' with 'sins'.

We all have small sins.

Nous avons tous de petits péchés.

Simple subject-verb-object.

Do not commit any sins.

Ne commettez aucun péché.

Imperative sentence.

She went to the church to confess her sins.

Elle est allée à l'église pour confesser ses péchés.

Infinitive of purpose 'to confess'.

He felt bad about the sins of his youth.

Il se sentait mal à propos des péchés de sa jeunesse.

Prepositional phrase 'of his youth'.

Can God forgive all our sins?

Dieu peut-il pardonner tous nos péchés ?

Modal verb 'can' in a question.

The movie is about a man and his sins.

Le film parle d'un homme et de ses péchés.

Compound object.

They believe that sins lead to unhappiness.

Ils croient que les péchés mènent au malheur.

Noun clause starting with 'that'.

He promised not to repeat his sins.

Il a promis de ne pas répéter ses péchés.

Negative infinitive 'not to repeat'.

There are many different types of sins.

Il existe de nombreux types de péchés différents.

'There are' with plural noun.

She tried to atone for her sins by helping others.

Elle a essayé de racheter ses péchés en aidant les autres.

Gerund phrase 'by helping others'.

The politician's past sins were revealed by the media.

Les péchés passés du politicien ont été révélés par les médias.

Passive voice 'were revealed'.

Greed and envy are considered deadly sins.

L'avarice et l'envie sont considérées comme des péchés capitaux.

Compound subject.

He spent his life trying to wash away his sins.

Il a passé sa vie à essayer d'effacer ses péchés.

Metaphorical use of 'wash away'.

The documentary explores the sins of the fashion industry.

Le documentaire explore les péchés de l'industrie de la mode.

Figurative use in a professional context.

She felt that her silence was one of her greatest sins.

Elle sentait que son silence était l'un de ses plus grands péchés.

Sin of omission.

The novel deals with themes of guilt and sins.

Le roman traite des thèmes de la culpabilité et des péchés.

Thematic vocabulary.

They believe that the sins of the father affect the son.

Ils croient que les péchés du père affectent le fils.

Idiomatic reference.

One of the cardinal sins of cooking is over-salting the food.

L'un des péchés capitaux de la cuisine est de trop saler les aliments.

Hyperbolic use in a hobby.

The architect admitted to the cardinal sins of poor urban planning.

L'architecte a admis les péchés capitaux d'un mauvais aménagement urbain.

Metaphorical application to a technical field.

He was haunted by the sins he had committed during the war.

Il était hanté par les péchés qu'il avait commis pendant la guerre.

Relative clause 'he had committed'.

The play examines how secret sins can destroy a family.

La pièce examine comment les péchés secrets peuvent détruire une famille.

Abstract noun phrase 'secret sins'.

She sought redemption for the sins of her ancestors.

Elle cherchait la rédemption pour les péchés de ses ancêtres.

Concept of ancestral guilt.

In his sermon, the bishop emphasized the sins of omission.

Dans son sermon, l'évêque a mis l'accent sur les péchés d'omission.

Theological distinction.

The company's sins were too numerous to be ignored by the public.

Les péchés de l'entreprise étaient trop nombreux pour être ignorés par le public.

Adjective 'numerous' with 'too...to' construction.

He believed that confession was the only way to purge his sins.

Il croyait que la confession était le seul moyen de purger ses péchés.

Verb 'purge' as a collocation.

The film is a dark exploration of human sins and desires.

Le film est une exploration sombre des péchés et des désirs humains.

Parallelism with 'desires'.

The author masterfully depicts the psychological weight of unconfessed sins.

L'auteur dépeint de main de maître le poids psychologique des péchés non confessés.

Compound adjective 'unconfessed'.

Historical sins often cast a long shadow over contemporary politics.

Les péchés historiques jettent souvent une ombre portée sur la politique contemporaine.

Metaphorical 'long shadow'.

The theological debate centered on the nature of original and actual sins.

Le débat théologique portait sur la nature du péché originel et des péchés actuels.

Technical theological terms.

He argued that the sins of the state are often borne by the most vulnerable.

Il a soutenu que les péchés de l'État sont souvent portés par les plus vulnérables.

Passive voice 'are borne by'.

The protagonist's journey is a quest to atone for a lifetime of sins.

Le voyage du protagoniste est une quête pour racheter toute une vie de péchés.

Genitive 'lifetime of sins'.

Dante's work provides a meticulous classification of various sins and their punishments.

L'œuvre de Dante fournit une classification méticuleuse des différents péchés et de leurs châtiments.

Academic description.

The scandal exposed the hidden sins of the elite society.

Le scandale a exposé les péchés cachés de la haute société.

Adjective 'hidden' emphasizing secrecy.

She wrote a scathing critique of the 'sins' of modern consumerism.

Elle a écrit une critique cinglante des « péchés » du consumérisme moderne.

Use of scare quotes for metaphorical effect.

The narrative arc culminates in a profound confrontation with the character's past sins.

L'arc narratif culmine dans une confrontation profonde avec les péchés passés du personnage.

Complex sentence structure.

He explored the idea that the sins of omission are more insidious than those of commission.

Il a exploré l'idée que les péchés d'omission sont plus insidieux que ceux de commission.

Comparative 'more insidious than'.

The poem serves as a lamentation for the collective sins of a lost generation.

Le poème sert de lamentation pour les péchés collectifs d'une génération perdue.

High-level literary vocabulary.

The philosopher posited that sins are merely manifestations of a deeper ontological lack.

Le philosophe a postulé que les péchés ne sont que des manifestations d'un manque ontologique plus profond.

Philosophical terminology.

Her memoir is a candid, often painful, reckoning with her personal sins.

Ses mémoires sont un compte rendu franc, souvent douloureux, de ses péchés personnels.

Appositive phrase 'often painful'.

The legal system, he argued, is ill-equipped to address the spiritual dimension of sins.

Le système juridique, affirmait-il, est mal équipé pour aborder la dimension spirituelle des péchés.

Parenthetical 'he argued'.

The architectural flaws were described as the 'sins' of a hurried construction process.

Les défauts architecturaux ont été décrits comme les « péchés » d'un processus de construction précipité.

Metaphorical personification of a process.

In the final act, the protagonist finds peace by embracing the totality of his sins.

Dans le dernier acte, le protagoniste trouve la paix en embrassant la totalité de ses péchés.

Gerund phrase 'by embracing'.

Synonyms

transgressions iniquities vices offenses trespasses failings wrongdoings misdeeds

Antonyms

virtues good deeds righteousness merits

Common Collocations

commit sins

confess sins

forgive sins

atone for sins

deadly sins

past sins

cardinal sins

sins of the father

secret sins

wash away sins

Common Phrases

the sins of the past

— Mistakes or wrongdoings from an earlier time that still have an effect.

The nation is still struggling with the sins of the past.

cover a multitude of sins

— To hide or compensate for many faults or mistakes.

A stylish coat can cover a multitude of sins.

live in sin

— An old-fashioned phrase for a couple living together without being married.

In the 1950s, it was scandalous to live in sin.

the seven deadly sins

— A traditional list of the worst moral failings (pride, greed, lust, envy, gluttony, wrath, sloth).

The artist created a series of paintings based on the seven deadly sins.

pay for your sins

— To suffer the consequences of your wrongdoings.

Eventually, everyone has to pay for their sins.

sins of omission

— Things you failed to do that you should have done.

His sins of omission were just as damaging as his lies.

sins of commission

— Wrong things that you actively did.

The report focused on the CEO's sins of commission.

forgive us our sins

— A common prayer asking for mercy for wrongdoings.

The congregation recited the words, 'forgive us our sins'.

mortal sins

— In some religions, very serious sins that separate a person from God.

He was terrified of committing any mortal sins.

venial sins

— Less serious sins that do not fully break a person's relationship with God.

The priest explained the difference between mortal and venial sins.

Often Confused With

sins vs since

Pronounced with an 's' sound. Refers to time. 'I haven't seen him since yesterday.'

sins vs signs

Pronounced with a long 'i' sound (/saɪnz/). Refers to symbols or signals.

sins vs scenes

Pronounced with a long 'e' sound (/siːnz/). Refers to parts of a movie or play.

Idioms & Expressions

"The sins of the fathers are visited upon the children"

— The idea that children suffer for the mistakes made by their parents or ancestors.

The war-torn country is a tragic example of how the sins of the fathers are visited upon the children.

literary/biblical

"To have more sins than hairs on one's head"

— To have committed a very large number of wrongdoings.

The old pirate claimed to have more sins than hairs on his head.

informal/exaggerated

"Be sure your sin will find you out"

— A warning that your wrongdoings will eventually be discovered.

He thought he had hidden the money well, but be sure your sin will find you out.

formal/biblical

"A multitude of sins"

— Many different faults or problems, often hidden by something else.

The new wallpaper hides a multitude of sins in the old plaster.

neutral

"Washing away one's sins"

— Seeking spiritual or moral purification after doing wrong.

He went on a pilgrimage, hoping for a way of washing away his sins.

religious/metaphorical

"Old sins have long shadows"

— Mistakes made long ago continue to have negative consequences for a long time.

The politician's career ended because old sins have long shadows.

literary

"To confess one's sins"

— To admit to one's mistakes or wrongdoings, often to seek relief or forgiveness.

It's time for you to confess your sins and tell the truth.

neutral

"To atone for one's sins"

— To do something good to make up for a past mistake.

He donated millions to the hospital to atone for his corporate sins.

formal

"As miserable as sin"

— Very unhappy or unpleasant.

The weather was as miserable as sin during our vacation.

informal/British

"Like sin"

— Used for emphasis, often meaning 'very much' or 'intensely'.

My leg hurts like sin after that fall.

informal

Easily Confused

sins vs crimes

Both involve doing something wrong.

Crimes are legal violations; sins are moral or religious violations.

Speeding is a crime, but lying to your mother is a sin.

sins vs mistakes

Both refer to errors.

Mistakes are often accidental or due to ignorance; sins imply a moral choice.

Forgetting a name is a mistake, but stealing is a sin.

sins vs vices

Both relate to bad behavior.

A sin is a specific act; a vice is a habitual character flaw.

Anger is a vice that leads to many sins.

sins vs faults

Both describe imperfections.

Faults are general weaknesses; sins are specific moral transgressions.

Being shy is a fault, but being cruel is a sin.

sins vs errors

Both mean something is wrong.

Errors are usually technical or factual; sins are moral.

There are three errors in this math problem, but no sins.

Sentence Patterns

I am sorry for my [sins].

I am sorry for my sins.

He wants to [verb] his [sins].

He wants to confess his sins.

The [noun] is one of the [adjective] [sins].

Greed is one of the deadly sins.

She tried to [verb] for the [sins] of [noun].

She tried to atone for the sins of her past.

The [noun] explores the [adjective] [sins] of [noun].

The book explores the hidden sins of the aristocracy.

It is a [noun] for the [adjective] [sins] committed by [noun].

It is a lamentation for the collective sins committed by the state.

[Noun] is a [sin] against [noun].

Lying is a sin against friendship.

The [sins] of [noun] are [adjective].

The sins of the father are numerous.

Word Family

Nouns

sin

sinner

sinfulness

sinning

Verbs

sin

Adjectives

sinful

sinless

transgression

guilt

repentance

atonement

morality

How to Use It

frequency

Common in literature, religion, and dramatic speech.

Common Mistakes

Using 'much sins' instead of 'many sins'. → There are many sins in his past.
'Sins' is a countable noun, so it must be used with 'many'.
Confusing 'sins' with 'crimes' in a legal context. → He was charged with several crimes.
'Sins' refers to moral failings, while 'crimes' refers to legal ones.
Pronouncing 'sins' like 'since'. → /sɪnz/ (rhymes with bins).
'Sins' ends with a 'z' sound; 'since' ends with an 's' sound.
Using 'sins' for very minor accidents. → I made a mistake on the test.
'Sins' implies a moral choice or a serious fault, not just a simple error.
Forgetting the 's' when talking about multiple acts. → He confessed all his sins.
Always use the plural 'sins' when referring to more than one wrongdoing.

Tips

Choose Your Weight

Use 'sins' when you want to add moral weight to a story or argument. It makes the wrongdoing feel more significant than just a 'mistake'.

Learn the Collocations

Pair 'sins' with verbs like 'commit', 'confess', and 'atone' to sound more like a native speaker.

Be Sensitive

Remember that 'sin' is a very strong word for some religious people. Use it carefully if you don't want to sound judgmental.

Count Your Sins

Remember that 'sins' is plural. Use 'many' or 'few', not 'much' or 'little'.

Metaphorical Sins

Use 'sins' to describe fundamental errors in fields like design, cooking, or sports for a more engaging writing style.

Watch for the 'Z'

Train your ear to hear the 'z' sound at the end of 'sins' so you don't confuse it with 'since'.

Humorous Hyperbole

Try using 'sins' jokingly with friends, like 'eating this dessert is one of my sins', to practice the word in a low-pressure way.

Check the Domain

If you are in a courtroom, use 'crimes'. If you are in a church, use 'sins'. If you are in a classroom, use 'errors'.

The Heavy Backpack

Visualize sins as heavy stones to remember that they are 'burdens' that people want to get rid of.

Literary Flair

Use 'sins' in creative writing to give your characters a more complex moral background.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Sins' as 'Serious Internal Negative Steps'. This helps you remember that they are serious, internal (moral), and negative actions.

Visual Association

Imagine a heavy backpack filled with dark stones. Each stone represents one of your 'sins'. The more you have, the harder it is to walk.

Word Web

God Guilt Bad Mistake Religion Confess Forgive Ethics

Challenge

Write a short paragraph about a character who is trying to atone for their past sins. Use the word 'sins' at least three times.

Word Origin

The word 'sins' comes from the Old English 'synn', which referred to a moral transgression or a crime. It is related to the Old Norse 'syn' (denial) and the Proto-Germanic 'sunjō'.

Original meaning: The original sense was likely 'truth' or 'real thing' (in the sense of 'it is a fact that this was done'), which evolved into 'guilt' and then 'moral wrongdoing'.

Germanic

Cultural Context

Be careful when using 'sins' in a purely secular environment, as it can sound judgmental or overly religious to some people.

In the US and UK, 'sins' is often used in political rhetoric to condemn the actions of opponents or historical figures.

Dante Alighieri's 'The Divine Comedy' The movie 'Se7en' (1995) The song 'I Write Sins Not Tragedies' by Panic! At The Disco

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Religion

confess your sins
forgiveness of sins
original sin
mortal sins

Literature

the sins of the past
atone for sins
tragic sins
secret sins

Social Criticism

sins of the industry
sins against humanity
corporate sins
social sins

Casual Humor

my favorite sins
sins against fashion
sweet sins
little sins

History

the sins of our ancestors
historical sins
paying for past sins
sins of the regime

Conversation Starters

"Do you think it's possible for someone to atone for all their past sins?"

"What do you consider to be the 'cardinal sins' of a bad friend?"

"In your culture, is the word 'sins' used mostly in a religious or a secular way?"

"Have you ever heard the phrase 'the sins of the father'? What does it mean to you?"

"If you were writing a book, what kind of sins would your main character struggle with?"

Journal Prompts

Reflect on a time you felt you committed a 'social sin'. How did you handle the situation?

Write about the concept of 'sins of omission'. Are there things you regret not doing?

Discuss the 'sins' of a modern industry (like social media or fast fashion) and their impact on the world.

Imagine a world where every sin was visible on a person's skin. How would society change?

Write a letter of forgiveness to someone who has committed 'sins' against you in the past.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, while it has religious roots, it is often used metaphorically to describe serious mistakes or ethical failures in secular contexts, like 'the sins of the banking industry'.

They are a traditional list of the seven worst moral failings in Christian teachings: pride, greed, lust, envy, gluttony, wrath, and sloth.

You can, but it sounds very dramatic or humorous. It's better to use 'errors' or 'oversights' unless you want to emphasize that the mistake was morally wrong.

A sin of commission is something bad you actively did (like stealing). A sin of omission is something good you failed to do (like not helping someone in danger).

Yes, 'sins' is the plural countable form of 'sin'. You can say 'many sins' or 'three sins'.

It is pronounced /sɪnz/, with a short 'i' and a 'z' sound at the end. It rhymes with 'bins'.

It means to do something good or suffer a punishment to make up for the bad things you have done in the past.

It is moderately common. You'll hear it in movies, books, and religious settings, but less often in casual daily conversation unless it's used jokingly.

The singular 'sin' can be a verb (e.g., 'He sinned against his family'), but 'sins' is the third-person singular present form of that verb or the plural noun.

In a general sense, it means a fundamental or very serious mistake in a particular activity, like 'the cardinal sin of public speaking is being boring'.