Torturing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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torturing
[ˈtɔːr.tʃər.ɪŋ ]
Definition
inflicting pain
Torturing refers to the act of causing severe physical or psychological pain to someone as a punishment, to force them to provide information, or for sadistic pleasure. This practice is often associated with brutal treatments in various contexts, such as war, criminal investigations, and political oppression. Torturing is widely condemned by international law and human rights organizations due to its inhumane nature. It is illegal and considered a violation of basic human rights.
Synonyms
afflicting, anguishing, excruciating, maltreating, tormenting.
Examples of usage
- The regime was accused of torturing political prisoners.
- They found evidence of torturing suspects to extract confessions.
- Many activists are working to end the practice of torturing in detention facilities.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- In ancient times, various civilizations, including the Romans and medieval Europeans, used torture as a method of punishment and to extract information.
- The Spanish Inquisition, which started in the late 15th century, is notorious for its use of torturing techniques to root out heresy.
Legal Perspective
- Many countries have laws that strictly prohibit torture, aligning with international treaties like the United Nations Convention Against Torture.
- Legal systems often debate the ethics and legality of using torture for interrogation, weighing human rights against national security.
Psychological Impact
- Survivors of torture often experience long-lasting psychological effects, such as PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
- The psychological understanding of torture includes not just physical pain but also the degradation of a person's dignity and humanity.
Cultural Representation
- Torture is a common theme in literature and film, often used to highlight conflict, moral dilemmas, or the dark side of humanity.
- In modern media, depictions of torture can provoke controversy, sparking discussions about ethics, realism, and audience desensitization.
Activism and Awareness
- Many human rights organizations, such as Amnesty International, work to raise awareness about torture and advocate for victims and justice.
- Annual events like the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture aim to educate and promote the rights of those who have suffered.
Origin of 'torturing'
The word 'torture' comes from the Latin 'tormentum,' which refers to a tool for twisting or tormenting. This Latin term is derived from 'torquere,' meaning 'to twist.' The concept of torture has been present in various cultures throughout history, often associated with historical practices of punishment, interrogation, and warfare. The use of torture can be traced back to ancient civilizations, including Roman and medieval times, where it was used as a method of extracting confessions or punishing crimes. Over time, the societal perception of torture has shifted considerably, especially as human rights movements gained momentum, asserting that torture is an inhumane practice that should be eradicated. By the late 20th century, the global consensus largely condemned torture, enshrining prohibitions against it in various international treaties and conventions.