Premeditation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ค
premeditation
[หpriหหmษdษชหteษชสษn ]
Definition
legal term
The act of planning or thinking about a crime before committing it, especially murder. Premeditation involves a deliberate intent to commit the crime and is often a key factor in determining the severity of the punishment.
Synonyms
forethought, intention, planning.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| premeditation |
Used in legal or formal contexts to describe something planned or thought out in advance, especially when referring to crimes or serious plans. It often carries a negative connotation.
|
| planning |
Used in a variety of contexts to describe the process of making detailed arrangements or developing strategies. The connotation is generally neutral or positive, signifying organization and foresight.
|
| intention |
Used to describe someone's purpose or aim, usually in a broader, less formal context. The term doesn't necessarily imply detailed planning and is neutral in tone.
|
| forethought |
Typically used in contexts where advanced thinking or careful consideration is emphasized. It can have a positive connotation, suggesting prudence and careful planning.
|
Examples of usage
- His premeditation in the murder case was evident from the detailed plan he had created.
- The court found evidence of premeditation in the defendant's actions leading up to the crime.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Legal
- Premeditation often refers to a deliberate intention to commit a crime, such as murder, showing that the person planned it ahead of time.
- In court, proving that someone acted with premeditation can lead to more serious charges than if the action was spontaneous.
Psychology
- Research suggests that premeditation involves cognitive processes that reflect on potential consequences before making a decision.
- It can be linked to higher levels of self-control and increased ability to avoid impulsive behavior.
Philosophy
- Many philosophical discussions explore the morality of premeditation, questioning whether planning makes actions more or less blameworthy.
- The concept of premeditation has been debated since ancient times, particularly in the context of free will and ethical responsibility.
Literature
- In many novels, characters who premeditate their actions often face moral dilemmas that drive the plot forward, showing the gravity of their decisions.
- Authors frequently use premeditated actions to build suspense, making readers question the characters' motives and outcomes.
History
- Historical figures such as generals and statesmen often practiced premeditation when devising strategies or making pivotal decisions.
- In ancient Rome, the preparation of orators included extensive premeditation to ensure their speeches were effective and persuasive.
Origin of 'premeditation'
The term 'premeditation' originated from the Latin word 'praemeditatio', meaning 'a thinking beforehand'. It has been used in legal contexts for centuries to refer to the act of planning a crime before committing it. Premeditation is a crucial element in criminal law as it can determine the degree of intent and culpability of the perpetrator.