The phrase "pass sentence" refers to the act of pronouncing a judgement on someone in a court of law. The spelling of the word "pass" is phonetically represented as /pæs/, with the initial /p/ sound being a voiceless bilabial plosive, followed by the short /æ/ vowel sound and ending with the voiceless alveolar fricative /s/. Similarly, the word "sentence" is spelled as /ˈsɛntəns/, with the stressed syllable being the first one and the final sound being the voiced alveolar nasal /n/.
To pass sentence is a legal term used to describe the action taken by a judge or magistrate in a court of law to formally pronounce the punishment or penalty to be imposed on an individual who has been found guilty of a crime. This signifies the final stage of a criminal trial, where the judge evaluates the evidence presented and determines the appropriate consequences.
The act of passing sentence serves as the culmination of the judicial process, with the objective of ensuring justice is served and maintaining order in society. It involves the judge considering various factors, such as the severity of the crime, the intent of the offender, any prior convictions, and the potential for rehabilitation. Based on these considerations, the judge determines the most fitting punishment, which can range from fines, probation, community service, or imprisonment.
Passing sentence is an essential responsibility of the judiciary, as it reflects the administration of justice and the power to hold individuals accountable for their actions. It is an authoritative act that carries significant implications for the convicted individual, as it directly affects their rights and freedoms. However, it should be noted that the severity of the sentence should conform to the principles of proportionality and fairness, ensuring that the punishment matches the gravity of the offense committed.
Overall, "passing sentence" refers to the legal act of formally declaring the consequences to be imposed upon an individual convicted of a crime, demonstrating the judiciary's role in upholding justice within society.
The word pass sentence comes from the combination of two different etymological origins:
1. Pass: The verb pass originates from the Old French word passer, which was derived from the Latin word passare, meaning to go or to pass. Over time, it developed various meanings, including to pronounce or give in the context of sentences or judgments.
2. Sentence: The noun sentence comes from the Old French word sentence, which was derived from the Latin word sententia, meaning opinion, judgment, or meaning. In legal contexts, it specifically refers to a punishment or decision pronounced by a judge or court.
Therefore, pass sentence combines the notion of passing or pronouncing a decision with the legal concept of a judgment or punishment, resulting in the phrase pass sentence.