noun
sentence
SEHN-tuhns
noun
1
A group of words that forms a complete grammatical statement, usually with a subject and a verb.
"Try to write a shorter sentence."
"Every sentence in the essay needs a clear point."
2
The punishment given to someone found guilty of a crime.
"He received a five-year sentence for fraud."
verb
1
To formally give a punishment to someone convicted of a crime.
"The judge sentenced her to two years in prison."
How to Use Sentence
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither a complete unit of grammar (a "sentence" in writing) or the legal punishment handed down in court.
Common pairings
serve a sentence
complete sentence
life sentence
Word Forms
sentenced past tense, sentences plural, sentences singular
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Try to write a shorter _____.
Etymology
From Latin sententia, "opinion, way of thinking," from sentiō, "to feel or think."