Repudiatory: meaning, definitions and examples

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repudiatory

[rɪˈpjuːdiətəri ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

legal terminology

Repudiatory refers to the act of rejecting or refusing to acknowledge a contract or agreement. It indicates a clear intention to sever ties or disaffirm an obligation, often leading to legal implications.

Synonyms

abandonment, disaffirmation, disavowal, rejection.

Examples of usage

The repudiatory breach of contract led to a lawsuit.
Her repudiatory actions made it clear she would not fulfill her obligations.
The court found the defendant's behavior to be repudiatory.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The root comes from Latin 'repudiare', meaning 'to cast off' or 'to reject'.
English adopted the term in the 17th century, encompassing both legal and social contexts.
The prefix 're-' means 'again' or 'back', while 'pudiare' relates to shame, indicating a strong rejection.

Law

In legal contexts, a repudiatory action can nullify contracts, marking a serious breach of agreed terms.
It is often used in family law, particularly in cases concerning divorce or a partner's refusal to fulfill obligations.
Understanding repudiatory actions helps parties recognize when a contract is still valid or voided.

Psychology

Repudiation can signify psychological defense mechanisms, where individuals deny uncomfortable realities.
This act might lead to cognitive dissonance, where conflicting beliefs cause mental discomfort.
In therapy, overcoming repudiatory feelings can help individuals confront truths about their relationships or behaviors.

Literature

In literary works, characters may engage in repudiatory behavior, often symbolizing conflict and growth.
Themes of rejection often explore deeper societal issues, such as exile or identity crises.
Classic literature often features protagonists who repudiate their pasts to redefine their futures.

Culture

Cultural movements have often involved repudiatory statements against prevailing norms, challenging societal standards.
Certain art forms serve as a repudiation against commercialism, advocating for authenticity and originality.
Influential thinkers have used repudiatory arguments to instigate change, seeking new paradigms in philosophy and politics.