Importunate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Literature

• Many classical writers used the term, including Shakespeare in his play 'Hamlet', where the importunity of characters drives the plot.
• The concept of importunity often appears in character-driven narratives, highlighting human persistence and desire.
• Modern authors might use importunate characters to represent societal pressures and relentless ambition.

Psychology

• Psychologists study importunate behaviors to understand concepts of persistence in negotiation and interpersonal relationships.
• Research suggests that being importunate may lead to social backlash, as continuous requests can annoy others or create resistance.
• People often exhibit importunate behaviors when they feel their needs are not being met, reflecting deeper emotional states.

Cultural Perspectives

• In some cultures, being importunate can be seen as a negative trait, while in others, it may be considered a sign of strong will or determination.
• Media portrayals often depict importunate characters as annoying or overly aggressive, shaping societal perceptions.
• Cultural expectations influence how importunate behaviors are received; in some contexts, assertiveness is valued more highly than in others.

Main points about word origin

• The word comes from the Latin 'importunus', which means 'unfit' or 'improper', reflecting the annoying nature of importunate requests.
• It entered the English language in the late 14th century, showcasing its longstanding relevance in communication.
• The prefix 'im-' in 'importunate' highlights the idea of something being done improperly or excessively.

The word 'importunate' originates from the Latin word 'importunus', which means 'unfitting' or 'inopportune'. This Latin term is composed of 'in-', indicating negation, and 'portunus', which translates to 'fitting' or 'suitable'. The transition from Latin to English occurred in the late Middle Ages when Latin terms began to be adopted into English vocabulary to enrich the language. The term became prevalent in the 16th century as English speakers began to express the idea of someone being unreasonably persistent or demanding in their requests. Over time, it took on a distinctly negative connotation, often used to describe behaviors that are bothersome or unwelcome. Its use in literature and everyday language has been consistent, reflecting societal attitudes toward assertiveness and persistence.

At rank #25,177, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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• 25174 mendicant
• 25175 episcopate
• 25176 whoop
• 25177 importunate
• 25178 munificent
• 25179 forfeiting
• 25180 peevish
• ...