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Impugn Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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impugn

[ษชmหˆpjun ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

challenge authority

To impugn means to call into question or challenge the validity of something, particularly in a manner that suggests doubt regarding its integrity or truthfulness. It is often used in a legal or rhetorical context, where one party questions the reliability of evidence or the motivations of another. Impugning is generally seen as an act of skepticism or criticism towards someone's statements, actions, or beliefs, indicating that the speaker does not accept what is presented at face value.

Synonyms

challenge, denounce, dispute, question.

Examples of usage

  • The lawyer impugned the witness's credibility.
  • He impugned her motives during the debate.
  • Many critics impugned the efficacy of the new policy.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Law

  • In legal contexts, to impugn someone's credibility can affect the outcome of a case.
  • Attorneys often impugn opposing witnesses to weaken their arguments and build a stronger case for their clients.

Literature

  • Many classic novels feature characters who impugn each other's motives, creating tension and conflict.
  • Shakespeare often used the concept of impugning in his plays to address themes of honor and reputation.

Psychology

  • Impugning can lead to distrust and conflict between individuals, affecting relationships and communication.
  • When someone feels their motives are being impugned, they may respond defensively and escalate tensions.

Pop Culture

  • Political debates often see candidates impugn each other's integrity as a strategy to gain public support.
  • Reality TV shows often feature contestants impugning one another to create drama and tension for viewers.

Origin of 'impugn'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'impugnare', which means 'to fight against'.
  • In the 1600s, the term was adopted into English to describe the act of challenging someone's statements or beliefs.

The word 'impugn' originates from the Latin verb 'impugnare', which means 'to fight against' or 'to attack'. Its roots can be traced back to 'in-' meaning 'against', and 'pugnare', meaning 'to fight'. The term entered the English language in the early 17th century, maintaining its connotation of opposition or challenge. Over time, it has evolved to specifically refer to questioning the honesty or integrity of a personโ€™s statements or actions. The word is commonly used in both legal and academic contexts, where the challenge or question posed carries significant weight. Its rich history reflects the longstanding importance of argumentation and debate in human discourse.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,949, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.