Lawlessness: meaning, definitions and examples

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lawlessness

 

[ ˈlɔːləsnəs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

in society

Lawlessness refers to a situation where there is a lack of respect for or adherence to laws and regulations. It is characterized by chaos, disorder, and an absence of authority.

Synonyms

anarchy, chaos, disorder.

Examples of usage

  • During times of war, there is often a rise in lawlessness as normal societal structures break down.
  • The increase in crime rates in the city was attributed to the prevailing sense of lawlessness among the population.
Context #2 | Noun

in a specific area

Lawlessness can also refer to the absence of law enforcement or the failure to uphold laws in a particular region or community.

Synonyms

disobedience, lawbreaking.

Examples of usage

  • The remote village was known for its lawlessness, with no police presence and rampant crime.
  • The rise of drug cartels has led to a state of lawlessness in certain border regions.

Translations

Translations of the word "lawlessness" in other languages:

🇵🇹 anarquia

🇮🇳 अराजकता

🇩🇪 Gesetzlosigkeit

🇮🇩 anarki

🇺🇦 беззаконня

🇵🇱 bezprawie

🇯🇵 無法

🇫🇷 anarchie

🇪🇸 anarquía

🇹🇷 kanunsuzluk

🇰🇷 무법 상태

🇸🇦 فوضى

🇨🇿 bezpráví

🇸🇰 bezprávie

🇨🇳 无法无天

🇸🇮 brezpravje

🇮🇸 lögleysa

🇰🇿 заңсыздық

🇬🇪 უკანონობა

🇦🇿 qanunsuzluq

🇲🇽 anarquía

Etymology

The concept of lawlessness has been a topic of philosophical and political debate throughout history. It raises questions about the nature of authority, the social contract, and the role of government in maintaining order. From the writings of ancient philosophers to modern-day discussions on governance, lawlessness continues to be a significant issue in society.

See also: law, lawbook, lawbreaker, lawbreaking, lawful, lawfully, lawfulness, lawgiver, lawless, lawmaker, lawmakers, lawmaking, lawman, laws, lawsuit, lawyer, lawyers, outlaw, unlawful, unlawfully.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,324, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.