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Unpunished Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unpunished

[ʌnˈpʌnɪʃt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

lack of punishment

The term 'unpunished' refers to actions or behaviors that have not faced any form of penalty or retribution. It often implies that wrongdoing has occurred without consequences, which can lead to further instances of misconduct as individuals may feel emboldened to act without fear of repercussions.

Synonyms

unaccountable, unchecked, undisciplined.

Examples of usage

  • His crimes went unpunished for years.
  • Many believe that unpunished offenders are likely to reoffend.
  • Acts of violence should never be unpunished.
  • The unpunished actions of the leader resulted in widespread criticism.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Studies suggest that perceptions of unpunished behavior can lead to increased instances of wrongdoing, as people may feel they can act without repercussions.
  • The concept of perceived injustice can contribute to societal frustration, especially when punishments seem unevenly applied.

Literature

  • Literature often explores themes of guilt and morality, highlighting characters who evade punishment, leading to deeper narrative conflicts.
  • Classic texts frequently portray protagonists who experience moral dilemmas when their actions go unpunished, prompting readers to reflect on justice.

Pop Culture

  • Films and TV shows frequently dramatize scenarios where characters act unpunished, showcasing the tension between law and morality.
  • The concept is prevalent in crime dramas, where perpetrators evade justice and the protagonists are left to grapple with their actions.

Social Issues

  • The idea of being unpunished can relate to discussions about systemic inequality, where certain groups may not face consequences for harmful actions.
  • Activism often focuses on the need for accountability, driving public discussions about crimes that go unpunished.

Origin of 'unpunished'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not,' combined with the past participle 'punished,' indicating the action has been completed.
  • Historically, it has been used in legal and moral contexts to describe offenders who escape consequences.

The word 'unpunished' is formed by the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the verb 'punished', which comes from the Latin root 'punire', meaning 'to inflict a penalty for an offense'. The concept of punishment has been integral to systems of justice throughout history, with societies developing various means to address wrongdoing. The use of the term 'unpunished' has grown in discussions surrounding law enforcement, justice, and moral philosophy, reflecting societal concerns about accountability and the consequences of actions. It denotes a significant socio-legal concern, particularly when discussing crime and its impact on community safety and ethical standards.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,417, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.