Overturing - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

legal context

Overturning refers to the act of reversing or voiding a decision, usually in a legal setting. For instance, when a higher court overturns a lower court's ruling, it means that the earlier decision is deemed incorrect or unjust. This process is essential as it helps ensure that justice is properly administered and that the law is applied equitably. Overturning can also apply to various contexts, such as legislative decisions or official rulings.

Synonyms

annul, invalidate, rescind, reverse, revoke.

Examples of usage

The Supreme Court is responsible for overturning previous cases.
The judge's decision was overturned by a higher authority.
Activists are working to overturn the controversial law.
The new evidence led to the overturning of the conviction.

Interesting Facts

Legal Concepts

In legal settings, when a higher court 'overturns' a lower court's decision, it means the higher court disagrees with that decision.
Overturning can also refer to the changing of laws or rulings, often leading to significant societal impacts.
Some controversial rulings in history, like those on civil rights or health care, have faced overturning, reflecting changes in societal values.

Political History

Governments have overturned policies due to public protests, demonstrating the power of societal feedback.
Major political shifts often see previous administrations’ policies being overturned by their successors.
The concept of overturning decisions is integral to democratic processes, as it allows for the correction of past mistakes.

Philosophy

In philosophy, discussions about overturning often relate to challenging established beliefs or doctrines.
The idea of overturning commonly appears in debates about moral and ethical standards, encouraging critical thinking.
Philosophers like Nietzsche have discussed the importance of overturning traditional values to create new perspectives.

Science

In scientific research, an established theory might be overturned when new evidence suggests a different explanation.
The process of peer review in science helps ensure that findings can be overturned if future research offers new insights.
In environmental science, overturning prior conclusions about climate change has often led to shifts in policymaking.

Social Movements

Throughout history, social movements have led to the overturning of oppressive laws and practices, reflecting changing social norms.
Grassroots efforts often focus on overturning unjust decisions made by authorities, showing community resilience.
The phrase 'overturn the status quo' is frequently used by activists aiming to create substantial societal change.

Origin of 'overturing'

The word 'overturning' originates from the combination of the prefix 'over-' meaning 'above' or 'beyond' and the verb 'turn,' which implies rotation or movement. Historically, 'overturn' started to appear in the English language in the early 15th century, deriving from the Middle English term 'overturnen.' Initially, it was used to describe the physical act of flipping or toppling something over, such as an object. Over time, its usage expanded into legal and metaphorical contexts, particularly in reference to reversing decisions or rulings. The progression of the term reflects broader societal changes in which the rule of law and rights of appeal became more prevalent. Now, 'overturning' is commonly associated with judicial processes, emphasizing the importance of checks and balances within legal systems across many democratic nations.

Overturing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations