C1noun2K

Confession

UK /["/kənˈfeʃn/"]/US /["/kənˈfeʃn/"]/

Definition

a statement that a person makes, admitting that they are guilty of a crime; the act of making such a statement

In simple words: Telling someone about a mistake or secret you did.

Examples

  • She made a heartfelt confession about her struggles with anxiety.
  • The priest listened to his confession with great compassion.
  • In her confession, she revealed secrets she had kept for years.
  • The confession came as a shock to everyone who knew him.
  • His confession in the court shed light on the entire incident.

Usage notes

Used in both everyday conversations and serious contexts, such as religion or law. Avoid in casual settings; more appropriate in personal or formal discussions about guilt or secrets.

Grammar pattern

confession + of + something

Memory hint

Think of 'con-fess' like confessing to your friends, showing honesty.

Collocations

  • full
  • public
  • true
  • make
  • sign
  • write
  • confession by
  • confession from
  • confession of
  • force a confession out of somebody
  • get a confession out of somebody
  • full
  • public
  • true
  • make
  • sign
  • write
  • confession by
  • confession from
  • confession of
  • force a confession out of somebody
  • get a confession out of somebody
  • go to
  • hear
  • booth
  • box
  • an act of confession

Synonyms

  • admission

Antonyms

  • denial
  • concealment
  • secrecy

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'admission' which has a slightly different meaning.
  • Used too casually in conversations, where formality is expected.
  • 'Confess' mistakenly used without an object; remember to use 'confess something'.