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Transgressed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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transgressed

[trænˈɡrɛst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

legal/ethical limit

To transgress means to go beyond a limit or boundary, often in a moral or legal sense. It implies a violation of a rule or law. For instance, one might transgress against societal norms or legal regulations. This term often carries a negative connotation, associated with wrongful actions or behavior that breaks established guidelines.

Synonyms

breach, contravene, infringe, violate.

Examples of usage

  • She transgressed the laws of the state.
  • The company transgressed ethical guidelines.
  • He transgressed the bounds of acceptable behavior.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Many classic novels explore themes of characters who have transgressed societal norms, leading to conflict.
  • Shakespeare's plays often highlight transgressions, prompting questions about morality and justice.
  • The concept is central in Dante's 'Divine Comedy,' where sinners transgress and face consequences in the afterlife.

Psychology

  • Transgression can lead to feelings of guilt or shame, which are important in understanding human behavior.
  • Studies show that people are more likely to transgress rules when they believe others are not watching.
  • Social norms play a powerful role; individuals may transgress when they feel peer pressure to conform to a different group.

Ethics

  • Philosophers often debate the moral implications of transgression, questioning if the end justifies the means.
  • In ethics, transgressions against fundamental rights can prompt societal change and reform.
  • Laws are often designed to deter transgressions by outlining clear consequences for wrongful actions.

Pop Culture

  • Many films plot revolve around characters who transgress rules, exploring the consequences and moral dilemmas they face.
  • In music, artists like Pink and Eminem often express the theme of transgression against authority.
  • Reality TV shows frequently feature contestants who transgress norms, which heightens drama and viewer engagement.

Origin of 'transgressed'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'transgressus', meaning 'having gone across'.
  • It combines 'trans-' (across) and 'gradi' (to step), showing the idea of stepping over a boundary.
  • In early English, it appeared in religious texts to describe moral wrongdoing.

The word 'transgress' originates from the Latin term 'transgressus', which is the past participle of 'transgredi', meaning 'to step across'. This Latin root is composed of 'trans-', meaning 'across' and 'gradi', meaning 'to step' or 'to walk'. The term evolved in Middle English as 'transgressen', which retained its original meaning of crossing boundaries or limits. Over the centuries, the usage of the word has expanded beyond its literal sense to encompass moral and ethical violations as well. It has been used in legal, religious, and philosophical contexts to describe actions that exceed permissible limits, thus contributing to its negative connotation in modern English.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,156, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.