Judgement

ˈdʒʌdʒmənt

nounmedium📊CommonLegal
3 meanings3 idioms/phrases3 questions

Definitions

3 meanings
1

A formal decision or pronouncement, especially by a court of law.

ˈdʒʌdʒmənt

nounneutralmedium
Legal

A formal decision of a court of law.

The court's judgement was based on the evidence presented.

💡 Simply: It's like when a judge in a courtroom makes the final call after hearing a case. That call is the judgement!

👶 For kids: When a grown-up in a courtroom says what's right or wrong, that's a judgement.

More Examples

2

The judgement was appealed by the defendant.

How It's Used

Legal

"The judge delivered her judgement after weeks of deliberation."

2

The ability to make considered decisions or come to sensible conclusions; the assessment of someone or something.

ˈdʒʌdʒmənt

nounneutralBeginner
Opinion

An opinion formed about something or someone, often based on incomplete information.

It's easy to make a snap judgement about someone based on their appearance.

💡 Simply: It's when you think about something and decide what you think is true or right. Like, "My judgement is that this ice cream is the best!"

👶 For kids: When you decide what you think about something.

More Examples

2

She showed poor judgement when she invested all her money in the risky stock.

How It's Used

General

"It is important to form your own judgements, rather than blindly following others."

Tip:Imagine weighing different options in your mind before making a decision.
3

The ability to use good sense to make decisions or form opinions.

ˈdʒʌdʒmənt

nounpositivemedium
Decision-Making

The ability to make good decisions; the ability to assess situations or people wisely

The CEO's judgement was crucial for the company's success.

💡 Simply: Think of it as having good 'sense' when you're deciding on something. It helps you choose the best option or figure out the right thing to do.

👶 For kids: Having good sense or smarts when you make a choice.

More Examples

2

Her strong judgement helped her navigate the difficult situation.

How It's Used

Business

"Sound judgement is essential for any business owner."

Tip:Picture yourself with clear vision, making sound decisions.

Idioms & expressions

Poor judgement

Making bad decisions or assessment.

"Investing in a failing company was a clear example of poor judgement."

Critical judgement

The act of analyzing and assessing something carefully, often leading to a decision or conclusion about its value or merit.

"Critical judgement is vital in evaluating research papers."

To pass judgement on someone

To criticize or express a negative opinion about someone.

"It's not right to pass judgement on others without knowing their story."

From Middle English jugement, from Old French jugement, from Latin judicium ('judgment', 'trial').

The word 'judgement' has been used in English since the 13th century, initially referring to the act of judging or giving an opinion.

Memory tip

Think of a judge's gavel coming down, signifying the official decision.

Word Origin

LanguageLatin
Original meaning

"judicium - 'judgment', 'trial'"

poor judgementsound judgementgood judgementcritical judgement

Common misspellings

judgmentjudgament

Usage

40%Spoken
60%Written