The phrase "pass sentence" is typically used in legal settings to refer to the act of formally announcing a punishment or verdict for a criminal offense. Some antonyms for this phrase might include "acquit," "exonerate," "vindicate," or "absolve," which all communicate the opposite outcome of a trial or legal proceeding. Other antonyms might include "pardon," "reinstate," "rehabilitate," or "free," which all suggest a release from punishment, a return to a previous state, or forgiveness for any wrongdoing. While antonyms for "pass sentence" can vary depending on context, they all generally communicate a release from punishment or a lack of accountability for any wrongdoing.