cardinal sin
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Before Robby and Al-Hashimi engage in any real ideological tussles, though, she commits the cardinal sin of suggesting they change the trauma center’s nickname to something else.
From Salon • Jan. 8, 2026
As Justice Sonia Sotomayor explained, this test favored certain denominations over others based on subjective judgments about their theological practices—a cardinal sin under the First Amendment’s establishment clause.
From Slate • Jun. 16, 2025
Attributing consciousness to animals based on their responses was seen as a cardinal sin.
From BBC • Jun. 15, 2024
The residents’ cardinal sin is placing all the responsibility on a single man, eager to wash their hands of any guilt.
From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 8, 2023
He had committed the cardinal sin of putting his own interests ahead of the organization and the people.
From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela
