Impure Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฑ
impure
[ษชmหpjสษ ]
Definitions
not pure
Not pure; mixed with extraneous matter, or with an inferior, unsound, or adulterated substance; impregnated with something foreign which is injurious, noxious, or debasing; adulterated; as, impure water or air; impure drugs, food, etc.
Synonyms
contaminated, polluted, tainted, unclean.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| impure |
Refers to something that is not pure, often having mixed or unwanted substances. It can be used for physical substances or metaphorically for moral or ethical impurity.
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| contaminated |
Used when something is made impure or harmful by the addition of pollutants or toxic substances. This often pertains to water, food, or environments that pose health risks.
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| polluted |
Describes air, water or other natural resources that have been made dirty or unsafe due to chemicals, waste, or other harmful materials. Often used in environmental contexts.
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| tainted |
Indicates something that has been ruined or corrupted by contact with a harmful or undesirable substance, or something that has been morally compromised.
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| unclean |
Describes something that is physically dirty. It can also refer to something morally or ritually impure.
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Examples of usage
- I can't drink this impure water.
- She was accused of selling impure drugs.
- The impure air in the room made her feel sick.
morally corrupt
Not pure in a moral sense; unchaste; lewd; unclean; lascivious; lecherous.
Synonyms
depraved, immoral, indecent, licentious.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| impure |
This word is typically used to describe something that is not clean or has been mixed with impurities. It can also refer to morally contaminated thoughts or actions.
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| immoral |
This word describes actions or behaviors that go against accepted moral standards. It is often used in a general context to highlight the wrongness of an act.
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| depraved |
This term is used to describe someone who is morally corrupt or wicked. It has a very negative connotation and implies severe moral decay.
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| indecent |
This term is commonly used to describe something that is offensive, improper, or not suitable for public display. It has a negative connotation.
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| licentious |
This word refers to a lack of legal or moral restraints, especially regarding sexual behavior. It carries a negative implication of excess and disregard for societal norms.
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Examples of usage
- He was known for his impure thoughts.
- Her impure intentions were clear to everyone.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In chemistry, a substance is considered impure if it contains other elements or compounds mixed in.
- Impurities can affect the properties of a substance, making it less effective or altering its behavior.
Cultural Perspectives
- Many traditional cultures have rituals to purify items or spaces, often addressing the concept of purity and impurity.
- In some religious contexts, being impure can affect oneโs ability to participate in certain activities or rituals.
Literature
- In literature, the theme of purity versus impurity often explores characters' moral struggles and societal expectations.
- Several classic novels use the concept of impurity to symbolize inner conflicts and societal judgment.
Health & Wellness
- In the health and wellness industry, purity often refers to the quality of ingredients in food or products, where impure means containing additives or preservatives.
- Imbalance in mental or emotional purity can also refer to negative thoughts or influences affecting oneโs wellbeing.
Origin of 'impure'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'impure' comes from the Latin 'impurus,' meaning 'unclean or filthy.'
- The prefix 'im-' means 'not,' so when combined with 'pure,' it creates the opposite meaning.
The word 'impure' originated from the Latin word 'impurus', which means 'not clean' or 'unclean'. Over time, the word evolved to encompass both physical impurity, such as contaminated substances, and moral impurity, such as unethical behavior. The concept of purity has been significant in various cultures and religions, with impurity often associated with negativity or sin. In modern usage, 'impure' is commonly used to describe something that is contaminated or morally corrupt.