Impure: meaning, definitions and examples

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impure

[ɪmˈpjʊə ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

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. The gold was impure, containing traces of other metals He felt impure thoughts creeping into his mind
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. The water supply was contaminated after the chemical spill They had to recall the contaminated food products from the market
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. The river became heavily polluted after years of industrial dumping Breathing in polluted air can lead to serious health problems
tainted	Indicates something that has been ruined or corrupted by contact with a harmful or undesirable substance, or something that has been morally compromised. The reputation of the company was tainted by the scandal The food was tainted with salmonella, making several people sick
unclean	Describes something that is physically dirty. It can also refer to something morally or ritually impure. The kitchen was left in an unclean state after the party In many cultures, certain animals are considered unclean

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.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

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. The water is impure and not safe to drink He had impure motives for helping
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. Stealing is considered immoral by most cultures His immoral behavior caused the community to shun him
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. The criminal's actions were utterly depraved They uncovered a depraved plot to harm innocent people
indecent	This term is commonly used to describe something that is offensive, improper, or not suitable for public display. It has a negative connotation. The movie was banned for its indecent content She received an indecent proposal that made her uncomfortable
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. The licentious behavior at the party shocked everyone He led a licentious life, ignoring all restrictions

Examples of usage

He was known for his impure thoughts.
Her impure intentions were clear to everyone.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

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.

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 one’s 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 one’s wellbeing.

Translations

Translations of the word "impure" in other languages:

🇵🇹 impuro

🇮🇳 अशुद्ध

🇩🇪 unrein

🇮🇩 tidak murni

🇺🇦 нечистий

🇵🇱 nieczysty

🇯🇵 不純

🇫🇷 impur

🇪🇸 impuro

🇹🇷 saf olmayan

🇰🇷 불순한

🇸🇦 غير نقي

🇨🇿 nečistý

🇸🇰 nečistý

🇨🇳 不纯

🇸🇮 nečist

🇮🇸 óhreinn

🇰🇿 лас емес

🇬🇪 უწმინდური

🇦🇿 təmiz olmayan

🇲🇽 impuro

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,199, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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12196 sponsorship
12197 annals
12198 ginger
12199 impure
12200 layered
12201 circulate
12202 shakes
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