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Transgress: meaning, definitions and examples

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transgress

 

[ trænsˈɡres ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

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?

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Word Description / Examples
transgress

Used in a formal or literary context to indicate breaking a moral or ethical boundary.

  • She transgressed the community's unwritten rules.
  • They fear he might transgress the sacred traditions.
violate

Often used in serious contexts to describe the act of disobeying laws, regulations, or rights; can carry a negative or severe connotation.

  • He was arrested for violating the court order.
  • The new policy could violate privacy rights.
break

Used in everyday language for general contexts to indicate the act of not following rules, laws, or expectations.

  • He broke the law by speeding.
  • She doesn't like to break promises.
breach

Commonly used in legal or official contexts to describe breaking a formal agreement, law, or contract.

  • He was sued for breach of contract.
  • The company faced penalties for breaching safety regulations.
trespass

Used specifically to describe entering someone else's property without permission.

  • They were caught trespassing on private land.
  • Trespassers will be prosecuted.

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.
Context #2 | Verb

religion

to commit an offense or sin; to act contrary to religious laws or teachings

Synonyms

disobey, offend, sin.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
transgress

A formal term used to indicate going beyond social, moral, or legal boundaries.

  • If you transgress the laws, you must be prepared to face the consequences.
  • He was punished for his transgression against the regulations.
sin

A term mostly used in religious contexts to describe actions that go against divine laws or moral guidance.

  • He asked for forgiveness for his sins.
  • According to her beliefs, lying is a sin.
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.

  • Be careful not to offend anyone with your comments.
  • His actions offended the local community.
disobey

Typically used to describe not following rules, instructions, or commands, often in a personal or less formal context.

  • Children often disobey their parents.
  • She was reprimanded for disobeying the company policies.

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.

Etymology

The word 'transgress' originated from the Latin word 'transgredi', which means 'to step across' or 'to go beyond'. The concept of transgression has been present in various cultures and religions throughout history, often associated with the idea of crossing boundaries or breaking rules. In English, 'transgress' has been used since the late 15th century to describe actions that go against established norms or laws.

See also: transgressing, transgression, transgressions, transgressor.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,746, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.