Injunction Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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injunction

[ɪnˈdʒʌŋkʃən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

legal

An injunction is a court order requiring a person to do or refrain from doing a specific act. It is a powerful legal remedy used to prevent harm or enforce rights.

Synonyms

court order, decree, restraining order.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
injunction

When you need a formal command or an authoritative order, especially in a legal setting, use this word. It generally refers to a court order requiring someone to do or cease doing a specific action.

  • The court issued an injunction to stop the company from disposing of hazardous waste improperly.
  • The activist group sought an injunction to prevent the construction of the new shopping mall.
court order

This term is a broad reference to any order issued by a court, covering a wide range of directives that a judge can make. It is not limited to a specific type of order and can be used in various legal contexts.

  • The court order required the landlord to make necessary repairs to the apartment.
  • He received a court order to pay child support.
restraining order

Typically used in contexts involving protection, this word refers to a court order intended to protect one person from being harmed or harassed by another, often used in domestic violence cases.

  • She filed for a restraining order against her ex-partner to ensure her safety.
  • The restraining order prohibited him from coming within 100 meters of the victim.
decree

A decree is an official order issued by a legal authority, often with a sense of finality or coming from a high authority. It can be used in both legal and non-legal contexts, such as royal decrees or governmental directives.

  • The judge issued a decree finalizing their divorce.
  • The king issued a decree that all citizens should observe a day of mourning.

Examples of usage

  • The judge issued an injunction ordering the company to stop construction immediately.
  • The injunction was necessary to protect the intellectual property of the artist.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Legal Evolution

  • In the 19th century, the United States and England began formalizing the use of injunctions as a way to prevent harm before it happens.
  • The concept of injunctions was rooted in English common law and aimed to protect rights without needing a full trial.
  • Injunctions can be permanent or temporary, with temporary ones often issued in urgent situations.

Types of Injunctions

  • There are three main types: prohibitory (to stop actions), mandatory (to require actions), and preservative (to keep things as they are during a legal dispute).
  • Injunctions are often used in cases involving intellectual property disputes to prevent unauthorized use of products or ideas.
  • Anti-suit injunctions can stop a party from pursuing a lawsuit in another jurisdiction, emphasizing the strategic nature of these orders.

Cultural Representation

  • In popular media, injunctions are often depicted in court dramas where characters seek immediate relief from a judge.
  • The term has also appeared in lyrics and literature, often symbolizing a struggle against authority or restriction.

Psychological Aspect

  • The process of seeking an injunction can evoke stress, given its implications on individual rights and freedoms.
  • Researchers have found that injunctions can produce a sense of vulnerability for those being restricted, affecting their mental well-being.

Real-World Applications

  • Organizations often use injunctions to halt activities that could cause environmental damage.
  • Injunctions are critical in labor disputes, often used to protect workers' rights during negotiations.

Origin of 'injunction'

The word 'injunction' originated from the Latin word 'injunctio', which means 'a command' or 'order'. The concept of injunctions dates back to ancient Roman law, where legal authorities could issue orders to compel or restrain certain actions. Over time, the use of injunctions has evolved in various legal systems to provide swift and effective remedies in cases of urgency or irreparable harm.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,953, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.