UPSC MainsENGLISH-COMPULSORY20175 Marks
Q45.

Use the following words to make sentences that bring out their meaning clearly. Do not change the form of the words (No marks will be given for vague and ambiguous sentences) : (ii) Condemnation

How to Approach

This question tests the candidate's understanding of vocabulary and their ability to use words correctly in context. The key is to construct sentences that clearly demonstrate the meaning of "condemnation" without altering the word itself. The sentences should be grammatically sound and reflect a nuanced understanding of the term. Avoid vague or ambiguous phrasing. Focus on situations where strong disapproval is expressed.

Model Answer

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Introduction

The word "condemnation" signifies the expression of strong disapproval or denunciation of something considered wrong or evil. It goes beyond mere disagreement and implies a formal or public judgment against an action, policy, or individual. In international relations, condemnation often takes the form of resolutions passed by bodies like the United Nations Security Council. However, condemnation can also occur at national levels, through legal proceedings or public statements. Demonstrating a clear understanding of this nuance is crucial when crafting sentences using the term.

Understanding Condemnation through Sentence Construction

Here are sentences using the word "condemnation" that aim to bring out its meaning clearly:

  1. The international community issued a swift condemnation of the terrorist attack, demanding justice for the victims. This sentence highlights the public and formal nature of condemnation, particularly in response to egregious acts.
  2. His actions met with widespread condemnation from human rights organizations due to their blatant disregard for international law. This illustrates condemnation stemming from ethical and legal breaches.
  3. The politician’s inflammatory rhetoric drew condemnation from across the political spectrum. This demonstrates condemnation arising from unacceptable speech or behavior.
  4. Despite mounting evidence, the government refused to offer any condemnation of the alleged human rights abuses. This sentence shows the *absence* of condemnation, and the implications of such silence.
  5. The judge delivered a stern condemnation of the defendant’s criminal behavior during the sentencing hearing. This illustrates condemnation within a legal context.
  6. The environmental group’s report sparked public condemnation of the company’s polluting practices. This shows how information can lead to public disapproval and condemnation.

Nuances of Condemnation

It’s important to note that condemnation isn’t simply criticism. It carries a weight of moral or legal judgment. The strength of the condemnation can vary, ranging from mild disapproval to outright denunciation. The context in which the word is used is crucial to understanding its intensity.

Condemnation vs. Criticism: A Comparison

Feature Condemnation Criticism
Strength of Disapproval Strong, often moral or legal Can range from mild to strong
Formality Often formal or public Can be informal or private
Implication Implies wrongdoing or evil Implies imperfection or error
Example Condemnation of genocide Criticism of a movie

The sentences above aim to demonstrate these nuances, showing condemnation in various contexts – international affairs, human rights, politics, law, and environmental issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the word "condemnation" denotes a strong and formal expression of disapproval, often carrying moral or legal weight. The provided sentences illustrate its usage in diverse scenarios, highlighting its significance in expressing societal and institutional rejection of unacceptable actions or behaviors. Understanding the context and intensity of condemnation is vital for accurate communication and interpretation.

Answer Length

This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.

Additional Resources

Key Definitions

Condemnation
The expression of very strong disapproval; censure. It implies a formal judgment of wrongfulness.
Censure
A formal expression of strong disapproval, often used in parliamentary or official contexts. It is closely related to condemnation.

Key Statistics

In 2022, the UN General Assembly adopted 14 resolutions condemning Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.

Source: UN General Assembly records (as of knowledge cutoff - 2023)

According to Amnesty International, in 2023, over 50 countries imposed restrictions on freedom of expression, drawing widespread condemnation from human rights groups.

Source: Amnesty International Report 2023/24 (as of knowledge cutoff - 2023)

Examples

The Nuremberg Trials

The Nuremberg Trials (1945-1949) involved the condemnation of Nazi leaders for war crimes and crimes against humanity, establishing a precedent for international criminal law.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is condemnation always a formal process?

No, while condemnation often takes a formal shape (e.g., UN resolutions, court rulings), it can also be expressed informally through public statements, protests, or boycotts.