Gravamen: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word originates from Latin, where 'gravamen' means 'seriousness' or 'burden'.
• It reflects the idea of a significant load or weight, metaphorically referring to the weight of one’s concerns.
• Initially used in legal contexts, it has retained its formal tone throughout history.

Law

• In legal settings, gravamen identifies the essential claim in a lawsuit, distinguishing it from minor complaints.
• It helps courts focus on the core issues, rather than getting lost in less relevant details.
• Different legal systems may interpret the gravamen of a case differently based on local laws and customs.

Psychology

• Expressing one’s gravamen can lead to emotional relief, as articulating concerns is crucial for mental health.
• The gravity of an issue affects how individuals perceive and react to stressors, emphasizing personal priorities.
• Understanding the gravamen of a complaint often helps resolve conflicts more effectively by addressing real concerns.

Pop Culture

• In literature and film, characters often highlight their gravamen during climactic moments, revealing their true struggles.
• Social movements frequently bring forth a collective gravamen, vocalizing the main issues driving societal change.
• Popular songs often focus on the singer’s gravamen, allowing listeners to connect emotionally with their stories.

Communication

• Identifying the gravamen of a conversation can enhance effective communication, ensuring clarity of purpose.
• In negotiations, understanding each party's gravamen is key to creating win-win outcomes.
• Active listening aids in recognizing someone’s gravamen, fostering a supportive dialogue between individuals.

This word's position of #31,352 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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• 31349 hutch
• 31350 bravura
• 31351 reminisced
• 31352 gravamen
• 31353 riddance
• 31354 snot
• 31355 foregrounding
• ...