“(As) guilty as sin” is a common phrase used in the English language to describe someone who is believed to be guilty of a crime or wrongdoing. The phrase is often used to express the severity of the alleged offense and to emphasize the level of guilt that the person is believed to bear.
Definitions
The phrase “(as) guilty as sin” is an idiom that means to be extremely guilty or to have committed a serious offense. It is often used to describe someone who is believed to have committed a crime or wrongdoing and who is likely to be punished for it.
Origin
The origin of the phrase “(as) guilty as sin” is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the early 19th century. It is likely that the phrase was influenced by religious beliefs and the concept of sin as a serious offense that required punishment.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, “(as) guilty as sin” means “very guilty, especially of a serious crime”. The Oxford English Dictionary defines the phrase as “completely guilty, without any doubt or question”.
Associations
The phrase “(as) guilty as sin” is often associated with criminal activity and the justice system. It is also associated with feelings of shame, regret, and remorse.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for “(as) guilty as sin” include “completely guilty”, “utterly culpable”, “totally responsible”, and “thoroughly blameworthy”.
Antonyms
Antonyms for “(as) guilty as sin” include “innocent”, “blameless”, “not guilty”, and “exonerated”.
The same root words
The root words of “(as) guilty as sin” are “guilty” and “sin”. “Guilty” means responsible for a crime or offense, while “sin” refers to a morally wrong or wicked act.
Example Sentences
- The defendant was found (as) guilty as sin and sentenced to life in prison.
- He looked (as) guilty as sin when he was questioned by the police.
- The evidence against him was overwhelming – he was (as) guilty as sin.
- She denied any involvement in the crime, but everyone knew she was (as) guilty as sin.
- The prosecutor argued that the defendant was (as) guilty as sin and deserved the maximum sentence.
“(As) guilty as sin” is a common phrase used to describe someone who is believed to be extremely guilty of a crime or wrongdoing. The phrase is associated with criminal activity, feelings of shame and remorse, and the justice system. It is important to remember that the phrase is an idiom and should not be taken literally.