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Renege Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿคทโ€โ™‚๏ธ
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renege

[rษชหˆnษ›ษก ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

breaking a promise

To renege means to go back on a promise, agreement, or commitment. It often implies a betrayal of trust, where one party fails to uphold their side of the deal. In various contexts, renege can involve failing to meet obligations in both formal contracts and informal agreements. While often associated with legal contexts, it can also apply to personal relationships and everyday situations.

Synonyms

backtrack, break, default, retract, withdraw.

Examples of usage

  • He decided to renege on his promise to help her move.
  • After much debate, they chose to renege on their contract with the supplier.
  • She felt hurt when he reneged on their plans for the weekend.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Law

  • In legal terms, renege often refers to failing to fulfill a contract, which can lead to lawsuits or penalties.
  • Parties involved in a deal can 'renege' if they no longer find the terms favorable or viable.
  • Preventing someone from reneging on a deal often involves putting agreements in writing.

Cultural Reference

  • The term is sometimes used in card games, particularly when a player fails to follow the rules, like not playing the right card.
  • In popular media, reneging on promises can serve as a common theme for character development, showing conflict or change in loyalty.
  • Cultural narratives emphasize the importance of keeping one's word, often depicting renege as a betrayal.

Psychology

  • Research shows that when people renege, it can stem from cognitive dissonance, where one's actions conflict with their beliefs.
  • People may renegade due to overcommitment, realizing they cannot meet their previously stated obligations.
  • The act of reneging often leads to guilt, affecting relationships and personal integrity.

Origin of 'renege'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'renegare,' which means to deny or reject.
  • It entered the English language in the late 15th century, originally relating to rejecting a belief or faith.
  • A common misconception is that it is exclusively used in legal contexts; however, it applies broadly to personal agreements as well.

The word 'renege' originates from the Middle English term 'renegan', which is derived from the Old French 'renรฉguer', meaning 'to deny' or 'to refuse'. This, in turn, traces back to the Latin word 'renegare', which combines 're-' (again) and 'negare' (to deny). Historically, 'renege' was often used in a legal context to refer to failing to fulfill an obligation in a contract. Over time, its usage has expanded to encompass various situations of betrayal or breaking of agreements. The term has also become more prevalent in informal contexts, where personal commitments and social obligations are concerned. As language evolves, 'renege' continues to retain its connotation of trust and responsibility.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,858 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.