damning

Damning is an adjective and the present participle of the verb damn. In general use, it describes something that strongly condemns, blames, or indicates fault. It is commonly applied to statements, evidence, or circumstances that, if accepted as true, would significantly undermine or discredit a person, argument, claim, or institution. In legal and investigative contexts, “damning evidence” or a “damning testimony” refers to material that strongly points toward guilt or responsibility, though it does not in itself certify a verdict.

The term carries a strong evaluative charge and can be used both descriptively and rhetorically. In journalism and discourse, calling something damning implies that it leaves little room for exculpation or doubt about the fault attributed. Because of its forceful connotation, it is sometimes used carefully to avoid overstating the conclusion; the ultimate determination of guilt or blame rests with appropriate authorities or evaluators.

A related idiom is “damning with faint praise,” where a mild or tepid compliment indirectly condemns the subject by highlighting flaws or deficiencies. The expression underscores how language can convey condemnation through seemingly positive wording.

Etymology traces damning to the verb damn, ultimately from Latin damnare “to condemn,” through Old French and Middle English. Related nouns include damnation and condemnation.