perdono

Perdono is a noun in Italian meaning forgiveness or pardon, and it is also the first-person present indicative form of the verb perdonare: io perdono. The noun denotes the act of forgiving another person or oneself, or a formal pardon granted by authorities. In everyday language, perdono appears in expressions such as chiedere perdono (to ask for forgiveness) and concedere perdono (to grant forgiveness). In legal and political contexts, perdono can refer to a pardon issued to a criminal, sometimes by a head of state.

Etymology: perdono derives from Latin perdonare, formed from per- “through, completely” and donare “to give,” conveying the idea of giving back or granting completely. The pathway from a general act of giving to the specific notion of forgiveness is common in Romance languages.

Usage and nuance: Perdono implies releasing resentment and refraining from revenge. In religious contexts, it denotes the remission of sins, often through repentance and divine grace; in Catholic thought, forgiveness can be conceived as both a divine gift and an interpersonal duty. In secular contexts, forgiveness is a social and moral choice that can vary in conditions and timing.

Cultural significance: Forgiveness is a recurring theme in Italian literature, film, and daily life, frequently tied to family, community reconciliation, and moral reflection. The concept intersects with mercy, penitence, and justice, reflecting a balance between accountability and compassionate release.

See also: Forgiveness, Mercy, Pardon, Amnistia.