Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Litigate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

⚖️
Add to dictionary

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.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'litigate'

Main points about word origin

  • '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.

The term 'litigate' comes from the Latin word 'litigatus', which is the past participle of 'litigare', meaning 'to dispute' or 'to quarrel'. The root 'lis' refers to a lawsuit, while 'agere' means 'to act'. The word has evolved through Middle English as 'litigaten' before adopting its current form. It has been used in legal contexts to refer to the actions taken to resolve disputes in court since the early 18th century. The concept reflects the broader legal tradition in which parties seek remedies through judicial systems, often involving significant legal procedures.

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.