Historical Christian term for the remission of temporal punishment for sins, especially in the Catholic Church. Also used in discussions of the Reformation.
In medieval Europe, the Church sold indulgences.
Luther criticized the abuse of indulgences.
excuse; justification; rationalization
Figurative use: something that provides a convenient excuse or justification for questionable behavior, as if it were a pardon.
He uses environmental protection as a justification for his business.
Being busy is not an excuse for doing nothing.
making amends; atonement
Colloquial use: doing something good to make up for a previous misdeed, as if buying forgiveness.
He bought an expensive gift as a way to make amends for his affair.
Compound of 免罪 (remission of sin) and 符 (certificate, talisman). Originally referred to the physical certificate of indulgence in the Catholic Church, later extended metaphorically to any excuse or act of atonement.