Blackmailed: meaning, definitions and examples
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blackmailed
[ˈblækˌmeɪld ]
Definition
coercion or threat
Blackmailed refers to the act of demanding money or another benefit from someone in return for not revealing compromising or damaging information about them. This usually involves threats of harm or exposure that compel the victim to comply with the demands of the blackmailer. The practice of blackmail is illegal and considered a serious crime in many jurisdictions. It operates on the principles of coercion, where fear is used to manipulate the actions of the victim. Blackmail can take many forms and can involve personal, professional, or sensitive information.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He was blackmailed into silence.
- She blackmailed him for money.
- The hacker attempted to blackmail the company.
- They threatened to blackmail the politician.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term originated in 17th-century England, where 'black' referred to the threat and 'mail' denoted payment or compensation.
- In its historical context, 'blackmail' often involved demanding a ransom for not exposing a secret or crime.
- Early uses often referred to the collection of taxes by force or threats, showcasing its long-standing relation to coercion.
Legal Aspects
- In many countries, blackmail is considered a crime and can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment.
- Laws vary on the definition of blackmail; in some jurisdictions, even attempted blackmail can result in charges.
- Victims of blackmail may find legal recourse through law enforcement, which can help them gather evidence and protect their rights.
Pop Culture
- Blackmail has been a common theme in movies and TV shows, often used as a plot device to create tension and conflict.
- Iconic films like 'The Godfather' and shows like 'Breaking Bad' depict blackmail as a key element in character motivations and story arcs.
- The term is frequently used in social media discussions, especially related to scandals or public figures being threatened.
Psychological Impact
- Experiencing blackmail can lead to significant emotional stress, anxiety, and trust issues in personal relationships.
- Victims may feel isolated and fear repercussions, which can affect their mental health and decision-making.
- Understanding the motives behind blackmail can be crucial for victims in seeking help and navigating their situation.
Historical Cases
- Throughout history, numerous figures have been blackmailed, including politicians and celebrities, often leading to public outcry and legal battles.
- In the 1920s, famous businessman J. Edgar Hoover was involved in scandals that included blackmail threats tied to his personal life.
- These high-profile cases have contributed to the public's perception of blackmail as a powerful and insidious tool.
Translations
Translations of the word "blackmailed" in other languages:
🇵🇹 chantage
🇮🇳 ब्लैकमेल किया
🇩🇪 erpresst
🇮🇩 pemerasan
🇺🇦 шантажував
🇵🇱 szantażował
🇯🇵 脅迫された
🇫🇷 chanté
🇪🇸 chantajeado
🇹🇷 şantaj yaptı
🇰🇷 협박당한
🇸🇦 ابتزاز
🇨🇿 vydírán
🇸🇰 vydieraný
🇨🇳 勒索
🇸🇮 izsiljevan
🇮🇸 útrás
🇰🇿 бопсалау
🇬🇪 ბლექმეილირებული
🇦🇿 şantaj edilib
🇲🇽 chantajeado