Basic Details
Word: Impunity
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: Freedom from punishment or harm for doing something wrong.
Synonyms: Exemption, immunity, freedom
Antonyms: Punishment, accountability, liability
Idioms and Phrases
- With impunity: Doing something without fear of punishment. Example: "The thief stole from the store with impunity, knowing that no one was watching."
- Beyond the reach of justice: To act without being caught or punished. Example: "He believed he could deceive everyone and operate beyond the reach of justice."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The politician acted with impunity, making decisions that harmed many without facing any consequences.
Example 2: The animal poachers roamed the forest with impunity, knowing that the laws were rarely enforced.
Example 3: The company's high executives sometimes operate with such impunity that they believe they are above the law.
Fun Fact
The word "impunity" comes from the Latin word "impunitas," which means "freedom from punishment." It has been used in English since the 15th century to highlight the lack of consequences for wrongful actions.
Famous Quote
"In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." Martin Luther King Jr. This quote refers to the idea that sometimes wrongdoings are allowed to continue due to inaction or impunity.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "impunity" mean?
a) Being punished for wrongdoing
b) Not facing consequences for actions
c) Being held accountable
d) Reacting to a situation
Answer: b) Not facing consequences for actions
2. Which of these is a synonym of "impunity"?
a) Punishment
b) Accountability
c) Exemption
d) Liability
Answer: c) Exemption
3. Which of these is an antonym of "impunity"?
a) Freedom
b) Exemption
c) Accountability
d) Immunity
Answer: c) Accountability
4. Which sentence uses "impunity" correctly?
a) The teacher gave the student impunity for passing the exam.
b) The boy played with impunity, not caring about the rules.
c) She listened to his impunity with great interest.
d) The book was filled with impunity and adventure.
Answer: b) The boy played with impunity, not caring about the rules.
5. Which idiom means to act without fear of punishment?
a) With impunity
b) Beyond the reach of justice
c) A different kettle of fish
d) Where there's a will, there's a way
Answer: a) With impunity
