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'.