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Impunity: meaning, definitions and examples

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impunity

 

[ ɪmˈpjuːnɪti ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

lack of punishment

Impunity refers to the exemption from punishment or loss. It implies that an individual can engage in actions without facing consequences, often in a legal or moral context. This term is frequently used when discussing criminal behavior, governmental actions, or violations of human rights, signifying that certain actions are taken without fear of repercussions. Impunity can lead to a culture of lawlessness, where individuals believe they can act without accountability.

Synonyms

exemption, exoneration

Examples of usage

  • The corrupt officials acted with impunity.
  • In some regions, criminals operate with complete impunity.
  • The policy changes led to impunity for those in power.

Translations

Translations of the word "impunity" in other languages:

🇵🇹 impunidade

🇮🇳 अपराधमुक्ति

🇩🇪 Straflosigkeit

🇮🇩 impunitas

🇺🇦 безкарність

🇵🇱 bezkarność

🇯🇵 無罪

🇫🇷 impunité

🇪🇸 impunidad

🇹🇷 cezasızlık

🇰🇷 면책

🇸🇦 الإفلات من العقاب

🇨🇿 beztrestnost

🇸🇰 beztrestnosť

🇨🇳 免罚

🇸🇮 neodgovornost

🇮🇸 refsla

🇰🇿 жазасыздық

🇬🇪 სასჯელისგან თავისუფლება

🇦🇿 cəzadan yayınma

🇲🇽 impunidad

Etymology

The word 'impunity' comes from the Latin 'impunitas', which means 'freedom from punishment'. This Latin term is derived from 'impunis', combining 'in-' meaning 'not' with 'punire', which means 'to punish'. The concept has developed through history as discussions around justice, accountability, and human rights have evolved. Impunity is often brought to light in the context of legal systems where certain individuals or groups are above the law. The use of the term has increased notably in modern discourse surrounding governance and law enforcement, especially in relation to issues like corruption and abuses of power.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,942, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.