Wrongful: meaning, definitions and examples

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wrongful

 

[ˈrɔːŋfəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

legal context

Wrongful refers to an act that is unjust, illegal, or morally unacceptable. It often pertains to actions that violate the rights of individuals or societal norms, leading to legal consequences. In a legal context, wrongful acts can result in civil or criminal liability.

Synonyms

illegitimate, immoral, unjust, unlawful.

Examples of usage

  • She filed a lawsuit for wrongful termination.
  • The court ruled that his actions were wrongful.
  • He was convicted of wrongful imprisonment.
  • They sought compensation for wrongful death.

Interesting Facts

Legal Context

  • In law, 'wrongful' often refers to actions that are unlawful, unjust, or violate someone else's rights.
  • Wrongful termination occurs when an employee is fired for illegal reasons, such as discrimination or retaliation.
  • The term is used in wrongful death claims, where a person has died due to someone else's negligent or intentional actions.

Historical Origins

  • 'Wrongful' has Old English roots, deriving from the word 'wrang,' meaning twisted or crooked.
  • It became more prominent in legal texts by the Middle Ages, increasing in use to articulate injustices.
  • The evolution of the term reflects changing societal views on morality and justice over centuries.

Cultural References

  • Numerous films and books explore themes of wrongful conviction, showcasing the flaws in the justice system.
  • Social movements often highlight wrongful actions taken against marginalized groups, advocating for justice and change.
  • Songs by various artists tell stories of wrongful love or betrayal, emphasizing emotional injustices in relationships.

Psychological Perspective

  • Feeling wronged can lead to resentment and the desire for revenge, which can affect mental health.
  • Studies suggest that perceptions of wrongdoing impact individual behavior, often leading to defensive actions.
  • Learning about wrongful actions in conflict resolution can promote empathy and understanding between parties.

Literature

  • Many classic novels deal with wrongful acts, such as 'To Kill a Mockingbird,' emphasizing themes of moral integrity.
  • In Shakespeare's plays, characters often face wrongful accusations that highlight the impact of societal judgment.
  • Poetry often addresses feelings of being wronged, capturing the emotional turmoil that comes from injustice.

Translations

Translations of the word "wrongful" in other languages:

🇵🇹 injusto

🇮🇳 गलत

🇩🇪 unrechtmäßig

🇮🇩 salah

🇺🇦 неправомірний

🇵🇱 niesłuszny

🇯🇵 不正な

🇫🇷 illégal

🇪🇸 injusto

🇹🇷 haksız

🇰🇷 잘못된

🇸🇦 غير قانوني

🇨🇿 nelegální

🇸🇰 nelegálny

🇨🇳 不当的

🇸🇮 nepravičen

🇮🇸 ólöglegur

🇰🇿 заңсыз

🇬🇪 არალეგალური

🇦🇿 qanunsuz

🇲🇽 injusto

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,278 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.