Litigate: meaning, definitions and examples

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litigate

 

[ˈlɪtɪɡeɪt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

legal dispute

To litigate is to engage in a legal proceeding or lawsuit. It involves taking a case through the court system to resolve a dispute between parties. Litigating can include various steps such as filing complaints, conducting discovery, and presenting evidence in front of a judge or jury.

Synonyms

claim, contest, prosecute, sue.

Examples of usage

  • The company decided to litigate against its former partner.
  • They are ready to litigate if an agreement cannot be reached.
  • Litigating a contract dispute can be costly and time-consuming.
  • Many lawyers specialize in litigating personal injury cases.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 'Litigate' comes from Latin 'litigare', which means 'to dispute'.
  • The roots can be divided into 'liti-' meaning lawsuit and '-gater' meaning to drive or bring about.
  • The term has been in English usage since the 15th century, reflecting the importance of law in society.

Law

  • Litigation can be a lengthy process, involving several steps like pleadings, discovery, and trial.
  • Many disputes are resolved without going to court through settlements, but litigation is still a common practice.
  • Litigation is not just about winning; it often involves strategy, negotiation, and procedure.

Pop Culture

  • Litigation is frequently depicted in movies and TV shows, often highlighting dramatic courtroom battles.
  • Shows like 'Law & Order' have popularized legal vocabulary and concepts, making them more familiar to the public.
  • Celebrity lawsuits often attract media attention, showcasing how litigation can be part of high-profile scandals.

Psychology

  • Engaging in litigation can have emotional impacts, causing stress and anxiety for those involved.
  • People may feel empowered when they litigate, as it provides a platform to assert their rights.
  • The resolution of a lawsuit can bring closure, but it can also prolong conflict if the parties remain contentious.

Economics

  • Litigation can significantly impact the economy, as legal disputes often involve large sums of money.
  • Businesses might factor potential litigation costs into their budgets and strategic planning.
  • The insurance industry also plays a role, often covering legal fees associated with litigation.

Translations

Translations of the word "litigate" in other languages:

🇵🇹 litigar

🇮🇳 मुकदमा करना

🇩🇪 klagen

🇮🇩 menggugat

🇺🇦 судитися

🇵🇱 pozwalać

🇯🇵 訴える

🇫🇷 litiguer

🇪🇸 litigar

🇹🇷 dava açmak

🇰🇷 소송하다

🇸🇦 يتقاضى

🇨🇿 žalovat

🇸🇰 žalovať

🇨🇳 诉讼

🇸🇮 tožiti

🇮🇸 saka

🇰🇿 сотқа беру

🇬🇪 სასამართლო

🇦🇿 məhkəməyə vermək

🇲🇽 litigar

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,427, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.