Violated: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is often used when a rule, law, or agreement has been seriously ignored or broken, usually in a way that is more severe and with potential ethical or moral implications.

• He violated the terms of the contract by not delivering the goods on time.
• The country's sovereignty was violated when the foreign army invaded.

This word is used in a more general sense to indicate failure to comply with a rule or an agreement. It's more colloquial and common in everyday language.

• If you break the law, you will be punished.
• She broke her promise and didn't show up.

Primarily used in legal or formal contexts, this word refers to encroaching upon or limiting someone's rights or freedoms, often in a subtle or indirect manner.

• The policy could infringe on individual privacy rights.
• Copying the book without permission could infringe copyright laws.

This term is typically used in the context of failing to follow orders, directives, or instructions, often from an authority figure like a parent, teacher, or leader.

• The soldier was punished for disobeying orders.
• Children should not disobey their parents.

This term is often used to describe a situation where a law, rule, or someone's rights have been broken or disrespected.

• Her privacy was violated when someone hacked her email account.
• The contract was violated by not meeting the specified deadlines.

This term is generally used when something sacred or holy is treated with disrespect or irreverence, causing it to lose its sacred character.

• The church was desecrated by vandals who spray-painted its walls.
• Looting the temple was seen as an act of desecration.

It is often used to describe actions, words, or behaviors that show disrespect or irreverence towards something sacred or religious. It can also refer to something that is secular rather than sacred.

• He was known for his profane language during practices.
• The sacred text was profaned by those who refused to treat it with respect.

Used in contexts where something is made dirty, impure, or unclean, often in a moral or physical sense. It typically has a strong negative connotation.

• The vandals defiled the ancient monument with graffiti.
• Pollution can defile pristine natural environments.

Use this word when referring to breaking rules, laws, or rights. It implies a serious breach.

• He felt that his privacy was violated when his emails were read without permission.
• The company violated environmental regulations.

Use this word when someone enters a place or situation unwelcome or without permission. It often implies an invasion of privacy or personal space.

• I didn't mean to intrude, but the door was open.
• He felt that the reporter was intruding on his private life.

This word is appropriate for gradual invasions into space, rights, or responsibilities. It often has a slightly negative connotation.

• Her work began to encroach on her personal time.
• The construction project is encroaching on protected land.

This word is best used when someone enters property without permission. It is often used in a legal context.

• The kids were caught trespassing on the abandoned lot.
• The sign clearly says 'No Trespassing'.