Harming Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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harming

[หˆhษ‘หrmษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

causing damage

Causing physical or emotional damage to someone or something.

Synonyms

damaging, hurting, injuring.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
harming

Appropriate for describing actions that cause general harm or detriment to someone or something, often in a broad or non-physical sense.

  • His careless words are harming her reputation
  • The industrial waste is harming the environment
damaging

Best used when referring to actions or events that cause physical or reputational damage, often emphasizing lasting effects.

  • The scandal was damaging to the company's image
  • The flood was damaging to all the houses in the area
hurting

Typically used for causing physical or emotional pain, often referring to immediate or personal impact.

  • She's hurting after the breakup
  • The fall hurt his knee
injuring

Most appropriate for describing physical harm to a person or an animal, often involving specific injuries.

  • He injured his arm while playing football
  • The accident injured several people

Examples of usage

  • He was arrested for harming his neighbor's car.
  • The toxic chemicals are harming the environment.
  • She felt guilty for harming her friend's feelings.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Studies show that people often harm others due to stress or unresolved emotional issues.
  • The act of harming can have a lasting psychological impact not only on the victim but also on the person causing the harm.
  • Research indicates that aggressive behavior can be influenced by both genetics and environment, leading to a cycle of harm.

Ethics

  • Philosophers like John Stuart Mill argue against harming individuals to benefit others, emphasizing individual rights.
  • The principle of 'do no harm' is a cornerstone in fields like medicine, guiding professionals to prioritize patient safety.
  • In discussions of animal rights, many advocate against harming animals, emphasizing compassion and ethical treatment.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures have varied beliefs about harm; for example, some may view certain traditional practices as harmful, while others see them as essential.
  • Many indigenous cultures emphasize living in harmony with nature, thus focusing on minimizing harm to the environment.
  • Art and literature often explore themes of harm, reflecting societal attitudes towards violence and its consequences.

Media Representation

  • Films and books often depict harm as a driving force in a characterโ€™s development, showcasing the darker sides of human nature.
  • News media frequently report on incidents of harm, shaping public perception and sometimes inciting moral outrage.
  • Many campaigns use powerful imagery and stories to highlight the harmful effects of bullying and domestic violence.

Legal Aspects

  • Laws regarding harm vary widely between countries, with some having strict penalties for those who harm others.
  • In legal terms, 'harm' can include physical injury as well as emotional or psychological damage, expanding the definition of what constitutes a crime.
  • Civil liability cases often arise from harm caused by negligence, holding individuals or organizations accountable for their actions.

Origin of 'harming'

The word 'harming' originated from the Middle English word 'harmen', which meant 'to cause physical or emotional damage'. Over time, the word evolved to its current form, maintaining its core meaning of causing harm or damage. The concept of harm has been a fundamental aspect of human interactions throughout history, with various laws and ethical principles aimed at preventing harm to individuals or society as a whole.


See also: harm, harmed, harmful, harmfully, harmfulness, harmless, harmony, unharmed.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,548, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.