Venial

Venial, in a religious or moral context, describes a fault or offense that is considered relatively minor, pardonable, or excusable, as opposed to a serious or mortal sin.

It implies a lack of grave consequence and does not necessarily sever one's relationship with God or moral principles entirely.

The focus is on the degree of wrongfulness; venial offenses, while undesirable, do not carry the same weight as more significant transgressions.

The concept provides a framework for understanding the spectrum of human error, distinguishing between less harmful mistakes and actions that have profound and potentially destructive consequences.

Venial meaning with examples

• Missing a work deadline due to a minor illness was considered a venial mistake by her boss. They understood and offered a reasonable extension without serious repercussions. It did not jeopardize her job or future prospects.
• The small amount of time he spent gossiping at lunch was a venial sin compared to the serious ethical breaches within the company. It was a minor transgression not reflecting the serious moral corruption within the organization.
• She made a venial error when she misplaced the office supplies. This was inconsequential. Her efforts and time were much more beneficial to the business, leaving this mistake to be forgiven easily.
• He accepted a small gift from a client. But considered it a venial transgression compared to some of the larger bribes some colleagues had taken to increase the deals.
• The child's minor disobedience, such as being a few minutes late for dinner, was understood by his parents to be a venial offense, not requiring harsh punishment or extensive reprimands. They focused on correction, not condemnation.