Vindication Meaning and Definition
Vindication
Pronunciation
/vɪnˌdɪˈkeɪʃən/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A declaration or confirmation that someone has been proved to be correct or right over a period of time, often in a situation where they have been criticized or attacked.
Examples
- The scientist’s vindication came when her prediction was proven accurate.
- After years of criticism, the artist’s vindication came in the form of a prestigious award.
- The athlete’s hard work paid off with a lucrative contract, a clear vindication of her dedication.
- The politician’s vindication came when the scandal was cleared up, revealing that the accusations were unfounded.
- The artist’s vindication came when her work was recognized by a prominent art critic.
- The team’s vindication came when they won the championship, after years of underestimation and criticism.
Synonyms
- Exoneration
- Justification
- Validation
Antonyms
- Conviction
- Affirmation
Etymology
The word “vindication” comes from the Latin “vindicare,” meaning “to avenge” or “to clear.” It has been used in English since the 15th century.
Additional Information
Vindication often involves a form of validation or confirmation that an individual or group has been proved correct in their actions or decisions. It can be a powerful tool for restoring reputation and credibility. The concept of vindication can also be used to describe the act of exonerating someone who has been wrongly accused or maligned.
Usage Notes
Vindication is often used to describe a situation where someone’s actions or decisions are validated or confirmed. It can also be used to describe the act of exonerating someone who has been wrongly accused or maligned.
Cultural References
The concept of vindication has been used in various forms of media, including literature and film. For example, the novel “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee features a plot centered around vindication, as the protagonist Atticus Finch seeks to prove the innocence of a wrongly accused black man.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Vindication can be found in idiomatic expressions such as “vindicated by the facts” or “vindicated by the truth.”
Related Words or Phrases
Other words and phrases related to vindication include “exoneration,” “justification,” and “validation.”
Collocations
Vindication is often used in collocations such as “vindicated by the facts” or “vindicated by the truth.”
Frequency of Use
Vindication is a relatively infrequent word in modern language, but it can be used effectively to add nuance and depth to writing or speech.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings of vindication include “vindicaton” or “vindicationn.”