Definition and Pronunciation
Sinful (pronounced: /ˈsɪnfəl/) is an adjective that describes something wicked, immoral, or going against religious or moral law. It often carries religious overtones, especially in Christianity, but it can also be used playfully in everyday English.
Easy Explanation
Something “sinful” is considered very bad or morally wrong, often in a religious sense. People may also use it casually to describe something too enjoyable or indulgent—like chocolate cake being called sinfully delicious.
Grammatical Formation
- Base form: sinful (adjective)
- Comparative: more sinful
- Superlative: most sinful
- Related noun: sinfulness
- Related adverb: sinfully
Word Comparisons
- Sinful vs. immoral: both mean wrong, but “sinful” is more religious in tone.
- Sinful vs. evil: “evil” suggests great harm or malice, while “sinful” can mean anything from mild moral failing to serious wrongdoing.
- Sinful vs. naughty: “naughty” is lighter and playful; “sinful” is heavier, though sometimes used jokingly.
Meaning with Prepositions
- Sinful of: rare but possible, used to describe someone (It was sinful of him to lie).
- Sinful in: describes a particular action (She was sinful in her greed).
- Sinful toward/against: shows the object of the wrongdoing (sinful against God).
Real-Life Examples
- It is sinful to cheat on your partner.
- The priest warned the villagers about their sinful ways.
- She found the dessert sinful but irresistible.
- He felt sinful thoughts after betraying his friend.
Synonyms
immoral, wicked, corrupt, evil, unholy, shameful, depraved, wrong, indulgent
Antonyms
virtuous, righteous, holy, moral, pure, innocent, good
Related Terms
- Sin – the root word; breaking moral or divine law.
- Wicked – morally bad, sometimes used humorously.
- Ungodly – against religion or sacred principles.
- Vice – bad habits or immoral practices.
Common Collocations
- sinful behavior
- sinful thoughts
- sinful pleasures
- sinful indulgence
- sinful act
Idiomatic and Figurative Usage
- Sinfully delicious: something that tastes too good, indulgent.
- Sinful pleasure / guilty pleasure: something enjoyable but seen as morally wrong or excessive.
- Sinful nature: the belief that humans are naturally flawed or prone to wrongdoing.
Sample Sentences
- He repented for his sinful actions.
- The movie depicted the sinful world of organized crime.
- That cheesecake was sinfully rich.
- She was warned to turn away from her sinful lifestyle.
Connection to Sexuality
Yes, “sinful” is often connected to sexuality in moral or religious contexts. Sexual desire outside of marriage, adultery, or lust has historically been described as “sinful.” At the same time, modern usage often uses “sinful” playfully or metaphorically in sexual or romantic contexts, as in a sinful night of passion.
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