Proscribed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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proscribed
[prəˈskaɪbd ]
Definition
legal context
Proscribed refers to something that is forbidden or prohibited, often by law or regulation. When a particular action, behavior, or entity is deemed harmful or dangerous, it may be proscribed by authorities. This term is commonly used in legal documents, policies, and discussions pertaining to regulations and rules. Proscribe can also indicate something that is socially unacceptable or condemned by a community or society.
Synonyms
banned, forbidden, impermissible, outlawed, prohibited.
Examples of usage
- The use of certain chemicals is proscribed by environmental laws.
- Proscribed groups face severe penalties if they continue their activities.
- In this country, hate speech is proscribed under the law.
- Proscribed forms of discrimination are not tolerated in the workplace.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Law
- In legal terms, proscribed actions are explicitly prohibited by statutes or regulations, often resulting in penalties for violation.
- Many countries have proscribed groups or organizations that are considered terrorist or extremist, impacting national security policies.
- Proscribing certain substances, such as drugs, has led to extensive debates about public health versus personal freedom.
Cultural Implications
- Proscriptions can arise from cultural norms, where certain behaviors or practices are deemed unacceptable or taboo.
- In some societies, proscribed items or actions can reflect moral or ethical standards that guide communal living.
- Historical examples include cultural proscription against witchcraft or divination, which have evolved significantly over time.
Political Context
- Throughout history, political regimes have employed proscription as a tool to eliminate opposition, intensifying social conflict.
- Proscribing dissent often raises important discussions around freedom of speech and state censorship.
- During the Reign of Terror in France, many were proscribed without fair trial, showcasing the risks of power abuse.
Psychology
- Proscribed behaviors can influence collective psychology, where forbidden actions can become more appealing due to the thrill of rebellion.
- Social prohibitions often create a sense of belonging among those who adhere to or challenge the rules, affecting group dynamics.
- Understanding why certain actions are proscribed can offer insights into societal values and collective fears.
Origin of 'proscribed'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Latin 'proscribere,' meaning 'to write before' or 'to publish,' historically used to announce or outlaw individuals.
- In ancient Rome, proscription involved listing enemies of the state, making them targets for punishment or death, hence the negative connotation.
- The term evolved in Middle English, adopting meanings related to banning or prohibiting actions.
The word 'proscribed' originates from the Latin term 'proscriptus', which is the past participle of 'proscribere'. 'Proscribere' itself is derived from the prefix 'pro-' meaning 'before' or 'in front of', and 'scribere', which means 'to write'. In ancient Roman times, a proscription represented a public list of enemies of the state, who were thus stripped of their rights and even targeted for death. Over time, the term evolved to encompass broader implications of prohibition and disallowance in various contexts, particularly in legal and political discourse. The usage of 'proscribed' has since extended to signify not only legal prohibitions but also societal norms and expectations.