Profaneness: meaning, definitions and examples

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profaneness

[prəˈfeɪnnəs ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

inappropriate language

The quality or state of being profane; irreverence or disrespect for sacred things; irreverent or obscene language or behavior.

Synonyms

blasphemy, irreverence, obscenity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
profaneness	Primarily used in a general sense to describe language or behavior that is disrespectful toward anything considered sacred or holy. The profaneness of his speech shocked the entire gathering. Her profaneness towards religious traditions was evident.
irreverence	Describes a lack of respect for people or things that are generally given respect. It can be used in both religious and secular contexts. It has a neutral to mildly negative connotation. His irreverence at the funeral was surprising. The comedian's irreverence brought a fresh perspective to the topic.
obscenity	Refers to language, behavior, or images that are offensive, especially because they involve sex or bodily functions. It is often associated with legal standards of decency. The film was rated for adults only due to its high level of obscenity. Publishing such obscenity could lead to a hefty fine.
blasphemy	Specifically refers to speech or actions showing disrespect or lack of reverence for God or something sacred. Often considered a serious offense in religious contexts. He was accused of blasphemy for questioning the religious text. The play was banned for alleged blasphemy against the church.

Examples of usage

He was reprimanded for his profaneness in the church.
She was shocked by the profaneness of the comedian's jokes.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

lack of respect

The lack of respect for something sacred or holy.

Synonyms

contempt, disrespect, sacrilege.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
profaneness	Used when describing language or behavior that shows a deep lack of respect for something sacred. His profaneness during the ceremony shocked everyone The profaneness of his words made the devout crowd uncomfortable
disrespect	Typically used when talking about a basic lack of respect for people or rules, not necessarily related to anything sacred. Showing disrespect to your teachers will not be tolerated His constant interruptions were a sign of disrespect
sacrilege	Applied when someone treats something holy or highly valued with extreme disrespect, often in a way that is culturally or religiously offensive. Defacing the temple was seen as an act of sacrilege To the devout community, his actions were pure sacrilege
contempt	Often employed when discussing feelings of intense dislike or lack of respect for someone or something perceived as beneath consideration. She looked at the mess with contempt His contempt for authority figures was evident in his behavior

Examples of usage

The desecration of the temple showed a complete disregard for the profaneness of the site.
His profaneness towards the traditions of his ancestors was deeply troubling.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'profanus,' meaning 'outside the temple,' originally indicating something not sacred.
The prefix 'pro-' means 'before' or 'in front of,' while 'fanus' relates to 'temple,' highlighting a separation from holiness.
Introduced into English during the 15th century, it has evolved to describe actions or speech deemed irreverent.

Cultural Perspectives

In various cultures, language deemed profane can indicate social boundaries and current moral standards.
The use of profane language often varies by region, with certain terms being more acceptable in some communities than others.
In literature and music, profaneness can be used intentionally to express rebellion or critique societal norms.

Psychological Impact

Research shows that swearing, including profane expressions, can help relieve pain and increase tolerance in stressful situations.
The act of using harsh language has been linked to emotional release, enabling individuals to articulate feelings more freely.
People often associate the use of profanity with aggression, but it can also serve as a social bonding mechanism in casual settings.

Legal Context

Profane speech may lead to legal disputes, especially if perceived as harassment or in violation of community standards.
In some jurisdictions, laws against hate speech can intersect with profane language that targets specific groups.
Many schools enforce codes of conduct that restrict profanity to maintain a respectful learning environment.

Literature

Notable authors, like Mark Twain and Kurt Vonnegut, have employed profane language to enhance realism and character depth in their writings.
Classic works often reflect the societal views on godliness and respectability, using identified profaneness to critique those values.
Plays and poetry may use profanity as a dramatic tool to convey intense emotions or highlight conflict.

Translations

Translations of the word "profaneness" in other languages:

🇵🇹 profanação

🇮🇳 अपवित्रता

🇩🇪 Profanität

🇮🇩 kekotoran

🇺🇦 профанація

🇵🇱 profanacja

🇯🇵 冒涜

🇫🇷 profanation

🇪🇸 profanación

🇹🇷 kutsallık

🇰🇷 모독

🇸🇦 تدنيس

🇨🇿 profanace

🇸🇰 profanácia

🇨🇳 亵渎

🇸🇮 profanacija

🇮🇸 vanhelgun

🇰🇿 қасиетсіздік

🇬🇪 სიწმინდის შეურაცხყოფა

🇦🇿 müqəddəsliyi pozmaq

🇲🇽 profanación

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,344 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

...
34341 stinky
34342 predetermination
34343 contraptions
34344 profaneness
34345 loneliest
34346 militating
34347 fenestrated
...