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Impugned: meaning, definitions and examples

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impugned

 

[ ɪmˈpjuːnd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

legal context

To impugn means to challenge the validity or truth of something, especially in a formal or legal context. It is often used in relation to someone's motives, character, or integrity when one questions their credibility.

Synonyms

attack, challenge, contest, dispute, question

Examples of usage

  • The lawyer impugned the witness's testimony.
  • He felt his motives were being unjustly impugned.
  • The article impugned the scientist's findings, raising doubts among the community.
Context #2 | Verb

general criticism

Impugn can also refer to criticizing someone or something by suggesting that it lacks good character or honesty. This usage often emphasizes the act of casting doubt on someone's integrity.

Synonyms

accuse, denounce, slander, vilify

Examples of usage

  • The senator's opponents impugned his integrity.
  • She was hurt by the impugning comments made by her peers.
  • It's unwise to impugn someone's intentions without evidence.

Translations

Translations of the word "impugned" in other languages:

🇵🇹 impugnado

🇮🇳 आक्षेपित

🇩🇪 angefochten

🇮🇩 diperdebatkan

🇺🇦 оспорюваний

🇵🇱 zakwestionowany

🇯🇵 異議を唱えられた

🇫🇷 conteste

🇪🇸 impugnado

🇹🇷 itiraz edilen

🇰🇷 반박된

🇸🇦 المطعون فيه

🇨🇿 napadený

🇸🇰 napadnutý

🇨🇳 质疑的

🇸🇮 izpodbijan

🇮🇸 mótmælt

🇰🇿 дауларға ұшыраған

🇬🇪 წინააღმდეგობა გაწვდილი

🇦🇿 mübahisə olunan

🇲🇽 impugnado

Etymology

The word 'impugn' comes from the Latin 'impugnare', which means 'to fight against' or 'to attack.' This is derived from the Latin prefix 'in-', meaning 'against,' combined with 'pugnare,' which means 'to fight.' The word made its way into Middle English in the late 14th century, maintaining its legal connotation over time. Initially used in a more general sense of attacking something, over the centuries, it became more narrowly associated with questioning someone's credibility or character, particularly in legal or formal discussions. Its usage has remained relatively stable, although it is often seen in contexts involving debate, accusations, and discussions around trustworthiness.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,517, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.