Transgress: meaning, definitions and examples
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transgress
[trænsˈɡres ]
Definitions
behavior
to go beyond the limits of what is morally or legally acceptable; to violate a law, command, moral code, etc.
Synonyms
breach, break, trespass, violate.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| transgress |
Used in a formal or literary context to indicate breaking a moral or ethical boundary.
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| violate |
Often used in serious contexts to describe the act of disobeying laws, regulations, or rights; can carry a negative or severe connotation.
|
| break |
Used in everyday language for general contexts to indicate the act of not following rules, laws, or expectations.
|
| breach |
Commonly used in legal or official contexts to describe breaking a formal agreement, law, or contract.
|
| trespass |
Used specifically to describe entering someone else's property without permission.
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Examples of usage
- He transgressed the boundaries of acceptable behavior by cheating on the exam.
- She was arrested for transgressing the law by stealing from the store.
religion
to commit an offense or sin; to act contrary to religious laws or teachings
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| transgress |
A formal term used to indicate going beyond social, moral, or legal boundaries.
|
| sin |
A term mostly used in religious contexts to describe actions that go against divine laws or moral guidance.
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| offend |
To cause someone to feel upset, annoyed, or resentful, often used in social and interpersonal interactions; can also mean breaking a rule or law.
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| disobey |
Typically used to describe not following rules, instructions, or commands, often in a personal or less formal context.
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Examples of usage
- In some religions, to transgress against the gods is considered a grave sin.
- They believe that transgressing against the commandments will lead to punishment.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'transgredi', which means 'to step across'.
- It is a combination of 'trans-' (across) and 'gredi' (to step), emphasizing moving beyond boundaries.
- The term has been in use since the early 1600s and was often related to moral or legal contexts.
Philosophy
- In moral philosophy, transgression often refers to violating ethical principles.
- Thinkers like Immanuel Kant explored the implications of transgression on moral law and duty.
- The concept often discusses the tension between freedom and responsibility in ethical decision-making.
Pop Culture
- Transgression is a common theme in literature and film, representing the struggle against societal norms.
- In music, many artists use transgressing as a metaphor for rebellion and self-expression, challenging the status quo.
- Notable characters, like the anti-hero, often embody transgression by breaking societal rules for personal gain or growth.
Legal Context
- In law, transgressions can range from minor infractions to serious crimes, each with different repercussions.
- Transgressions are typically addressed by penalties that serve to deter such behavior in society.
- The understanding of what constitutes a transgression can vary widely between cultures and legal systems.
Psychology
- Psychologists examine why individuals transgress rules, often linking it to underlying desires or social pressures.
- Transgressions can lead to emotional consequences, such as guilt or shame, that impact wellbeing.
- The study of transgression helps understand moral development, particularly in how children learn to respect boundaries.