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Compunction Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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compunction

[kəmˈpʌŋkʃən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

moral feeling

Compunction refers to a feeling of guilt or regret that arises after doing something wrong. It often indicates a moral consciousness and can compel an individual to make amends for their actions. This emotion is typically experienced when one realizes that their actions have caused harm to others or violated their own ethical standards. Compunction can lead to personal reflection and motivation for change, encouraging individuals to act more responsibly in the future.

Synonyms

contrition, guilt, penitence, regret, remorse.

Examples of usage

  • She felt a sense of compunction after lying to her friend.
  • His compunction over the incident drove him to apologize.
  • The politician's compunction was evident after the scandal was revealed.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Research indicates that feelings of compunction can lead to positive behavioral changes, as individuals are motivated to avoid making the same mistakes.
  • It's considered a key emotion in moral decision-making, often prompting reflections on personal values and ethics.

Literature

  • Compunction often appears in literature as a character's internal struggle, revealing deep moral conflicts and human emotions.
  • Shakespeare often explored themes of guilt and compunction in plays, highlighting the emotional turmoil of his characters.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In many cultures, experiencing compunction is viewed positively, as it signifies empathy and moral integrity.
  • Various religions emphasize the importance of feeling regret as a step toward seeking forgiveness and redemption.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers like Kant discussed compunction as part of the broader idea of duty and moral law, arguing that feeling guilty indicates an awareness of ethical wrongdoing.
  • Existentialist thinkers link compunction to personal responsibility, suggesting that acknowledging feelings of guilt helps individuals define their own ethics.

Origin of 'compunction'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin 'compunctio', meaning 'a prick' or 'a sting', reflecting the sharp feeling of guilt.
  • It has roots in the prefix 'com-' meaning 'with' and 'punctio' meaning 'puncture', suggesting a feeling that pierces your conscience.

The word 'compunction' comes from the Latin 'compunctio', which is derived from 'compungere', meaning 'to prick or sting'. This term combines 'com-', meaning 'together', and 'pungere', meaning 'to prick'. The concept originally implied being pricked or stung by remorse, emphasizing the inner pain that accompanies guilt. It entered the English language in the late 14th century, initially used in literary and religious contexts to describe the feelings associated with sinning or moral failing. Over the centuries, 'compunction' has broadened in its application but retains its essence of guilt linked with moral conscience and responsibility.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,647, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.