Abrogate: meaning, definitions and examples

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abrogate

 

[ˈæb.rə.ɡeɪt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

legal context

To abrogate means to formally abolish or annul a law, agreement, or customary practice. This action is often taken by a governing body or legislator. The term is derived from the Latin word 'abrogare', which combines 'ab-' meaning 'away' and 'rogare' meaning 'to ask or propose'. In a legal framework, abrogation can nullify the effects of past actions or rules, making it essential for the updating or reforming of regulations.

Synonyms

abolish, annul, revoke.

Examples of usage

  • The government decided to abrogate the outdated law.
  • They sought to abrogate the treaty signed years ago.
  • His proposal would abrogate the previous regulations on emissions.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'abrogare,' meaning 'to repeal' or 'to revoke'.
  • In Latin, 'ab-' means 'away from' and 'rogare' means 'to ask' or 'to propose', which together suggest taking back a proposal.
  • The term has been used in English since the 16th century, originally in legal contexts.

Legal Significance

  • Abrogation is commonly used to refer to a legislative act where a law is formally annulled.
  • In some systems, abrogating a treaty requires agreement from all parties, while in others, it can be done unilaterally.
  • Major political changes often lead to the abrogation of previous laws, reflecting shifts in governance or ideology.

Cultural Impact

  • Throughout history, revolutions have led to the abrogation of outdated laws, marking the beginning of new societal norms.
  • Abrogation can evoke strong public reactions, as seen in cases where societal values significantly shift, such as in civil rights movements.
  • Artists and writers often explore themes of abrogation to challenge conventions and advocate for reform.

Psychology

  • The concept relates to how humans perceive and accept authority; abrogation may reflect a breakdown in social contracts.
  • Studies show that people may struggle with the emotional and cognitive dissonance that comes from laws being abrogated abruptly.
  • The impact on trust is significant; frequent abrogation of laws can lead to skepticism towards governance.

Literature

  • In classic literature, the act of abrogation often symbolizes the struggle against oppressive power.
  • Authors may use the theme of abrogation to frame their narratives around freedom and personal autonomy.
  • The word can evoke imagery of characters reclaiming their rights, showcasing the societal push against unjust laws.

Translations

Translations of the word "abrogate" in other languages:

🇵🇹 abrogar

🇮🇳 अवशेष

🇩🇪 aufheben

🇮🇩 membatalkan

🇺🇦 скасувати

🇵🇱 uchylić

🇯🇵 廃止する

🇫🇷 abroger

🇪🇸 abrogar

🇹🇷 iptal etmek

🇰🇷 폐지하다

🇸🇦 إلغاء

🇨🇿 zrušit

🇸🇰 zrušiť

🇨🇳 废止

🇸🇮 odpraviti

🇮🇸 fella niður

🇰🇿 жою

🇬🇪 აღკვეთა

🇦🇿 ləğv etmək

🇲🇽 abrogar

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,346, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.