zondig

Zondig is a Dutch adjective meaning sinful or morally wrong. It is most often used to describe actions, motives, or traits that violate moral or divine law. In religious contexts, zondig carries normative weight and implies a need for repentance. In secular use, it can function metaphorically to condemn behavior as especially immoral or unethical, even when no religious judgment is intended.

Etymology and related terms: The word derives from the noun zonde, meaning sin, which itself comes from Old Dutch and Proto-Germanic roots that are cognate with German Sünde and English sin. The suffix -ig is a common Germanic forming ending that yields adjectives meaning “characterized by” or “full of,” so zondig literally means “full of sin.”

Usage and nuance: Zondig typically collocates with nouns such as zondig gedrag (sinful behavior), zondige daden (sinful deeds), or zondige verlangens (sinful desires). In religious discourse, it reinforces moral accountability and can accompany calls to confession or repentance. In contemporary, non-religious language, it may be used more loosely or hyperbolically to describe actions perceived as deeply immoral or unethical.

See also: Zonde (sin). Related concepts in Dutch religious and ethical discourse include heilig (holy) as the moral opposite of zondig, and zondigheid or zondigheidstoestand as nouns referring to sinfulness or guilt.

Note: The article reflects standard Dutch usage and typical translations; exact connotations can vary by region and context.