Loopholed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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loopholed
[ˈluːphəʊld ]
Definition
legal context
To have loopholes means to exploit gaps or ambiguities in the law, often resulting in unintended legal advantages. This term is frequently used in discussions about law and policy where individuals or organizations take advantage of such gaps. The action might lead to outcomes that were not intended by the lawmakers. It highlights the limitations in legal frameworks, showcasing how unintentional outcomes can arise from legal constructs.
Synonyms
bypassed, circumvented, exploited.
Examples of usage
- They managed to loophole the regulations to avoid penalties.
- The company was found to have loophole their tax obligations.
- Lawyers often look for ways to loophole around restrictive agreements.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Law
- People often look for loopholed policies to legally reduce taxes or avoid penalties without breaking the law.
- In legal terms, seeking loopholes is sometimes seen as clever, while other times it's criticized as unethical.
Pop Culture
- Movies and TV shows sometimes depict characters using loopholes to escape from tricky situations, making it a popular trope.
- In literature, loopholes are often featured in detective stories where characters exploit them to solve mysteries.
Psychology
- Research suggests that people who frequently seek loopholes may have a more flexible approach to rules and regulations.
- Cognitive dissonance can occur when people justify their actions in exploiting loopholes, creating a conflict between ethics and legality.
Economics
- In business, companies sometimes look for loopholes to increase profits, leading to debates about corporate ethics.
- Tax loopholes are a significant topic in economics, often affecting government revenue and social equity.
Origin of 'loopholed'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from 'loop,' meaning a circle, and 'hole,' suggesting an opening or gap.
- It was first used in the 19th century, particularly in legal discussions about ways to avoid legal obligations.
The term 'loophole' originally refers to a narrow opening in fortifications through which defenders could shoot, a metaphorical use dating back to around the 14th century. The etymology comes from the Old English word 'loophole', combining 'loop' meaning a hole or opening. In a legal sense, it started gaining traction in the 20th century as laws became more complex and multifaceted. The concept of loopholes in law evokes the image of individuals or corporations finding ways to navigate through these intricacies to gain advantages, often raising ethical questions regarding the spirit of the law versus its letter.