Confess
/kənˈfɛs/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo admit or acknowledge something, typically a crime, a fault, or a feeling.
/kənˈfɛs/
To admit to something, typically a crime or a fault.
He confessed his love for her.
💡 Simply: Imagine you broke a vase. Confessing means you tell the truth about it, even though you might get in trouble. It's like saying, 'Okay, it was me!'
👶 For kids: To say you did something wrong, like telling your mom you ate the last cookie.
More Examples
The suspect confessed to the robbery after hours of interrogation.
She confessed to being the one who took the missing book.
How It's Used
"The defendant confessed to the murder."
"He confessed his sins to the priest."
"She confessed her feelings to him."
To state or declare one's belief or faith openly.
/kənˈfɛs/
To declare one's faith, especially in a religious context.
He confessed his faith in the Lord.
💡 Simply: Imagine you have a strong belief, like believing in superheroes. Confessing means you tell everyone about this belief and how it guides you.
👶 For kids: To tell people what you believe in, like that you believe in Santa Claus.
More Examples
The martyrs confessed their beliefs even under torture.
She confessed her devotion to the church.
How It's Used
"They confessed their faith in the face of persecution."
Idioms & expressions
confess all
To reveal everything about a situation, often including secrets or wrongdoings.
"After the police pressured him, he confessed all about the crime."
From Middle English confessen, from Old French confesser, from Latin confessus, past participle of confiteri ('to admit, acknowledge'), from con- ('together') + fateri ('to speak').
The word 'confess' has been used since the 13th century to describe admitting faults or beliefs.
Memory tip
Think of 'fess up' - admitting something, like a secret or wrongdoing.