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Moot: meaning, definitions and examples

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moot

 

[ muːt ]

Adjective / Verb
Context #1 | Adjective

legal discussions

The term 'moot' refers to a point of discussion that is no longer relevant or applicable. It often arises in legal contexts where certain arguments or issues become moot because they are rendered unnecessary due to a change in circumstances or a ruling. A moot point does not merit additional debate as it won't influence the outcome. Essentially, it signifies a lack of practical significance in the ongoing discourse.

Synonyms

academic, insignificant, irrelevant

Examples of usage

  • The court ruled that the case was moot.
  • Discussing that topic is moot now.
  • We found our previous arguments to be moot.
Context #2 | Verb

debating issues

To moot a question means to bring it up for debate or discussion. This usage indicates an intention to address a topic, idea, or proposal that may not have a definitive answer. Mooting can be a way to explore hypothetical scenarios or to clarify a legal point. It is often associated with formal debate settings and legal contexts.

Synonyms

introduce, propose, suggest

Examples of usage

  • She mooted the idea of a new policy.
  • We should moot the options before making a decision.
  • The committee mooted several proposals last night.

Translations

Translations of the word "moot" in other languages:

🇵🇹 discutível

🇮🇳 विवादास्पद

🇩🇪 umstritten

🇮🇩 diperdebatkan

🇺🇦 спірний

🇵🇱 sporny

🇯🇵 議論の余地がある

🇫🇷 discutable

🇪🇸 discutible

🇹🇷 tartışmalı

🇰🇷 논란의 여지가 있는

🇸🇦 قابل للنقاش

🇨🇿 sporný

🇸🇰 sporný

🇨🇳 有争议的

🇸🇮 sporen

🇮🇸 umdeildur

🇰🇿 дауларға толы

🇬🇪 სპორული

🇦🇿 müzakirə olunan

🇲🇽 discutible

Word origin

The word 'moot' has its origins in the Old English 'mot,' which referred to a meeting or assembly. Historically, it was often used to describe a gathering of people for discussion or deliberation, particularly in legal contexts. Over time, the meaning evolved to signify matters that were discussed but had no effective consequence or application. In contemporary usage, especially within legal jargon, 'moot' has come to denote issues that lack real-world relevance, usually due to changes in circumstances that remove their necessity for debate. The transition of 'moot' from a term indicating deliberation to one highlighting irrelevance reflects its evolving role in language and significant discourse.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,500, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.