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impudence

English → EnglishformalInstant · from the shared dictionary
Illustration of "impudence": Impudence refers to the quality of being offensively bold, disrespectful, or shamelessly rude. It ca

What does "impudence" mean?

Impudence refers to the quality of being offensively bold, disrespectful, or shamelessly rude. It carries the mental image of someone looking an authority figure in the eye and defiantly refusing to show the expected level of deference or humility. It is a formal, somewhat literary term often used to describe behavior that crosses the line from mere confidence into arrogant insubordination. You might see it used in legal settings, historical accounts, or critiques of someone’s behavior when they have been particularly cheeky or audacious in a way that insults others.

"impudence" in conversation

Workplace confrontation

I cannot believe you just talked back to the CEO like that.

I cannot believe you just talked back to the CEO like that.

I was just being honest.

I was just being honest.

Your impudence will cost you your job, mark my words.

Your impudence will cost you your job, mark my words.

Used to describe a career-damaging lack of respect.

Historical drama

How dare you enter my chambers unannounced?

How dare you enter my chambers unannounced?

I have news that cannot wait for your permission.

I have news that cannot wait for your permission.

Such impudence shall be met with imprisonment.

Such impudence shall be met with imprisonment.

Highlights the power dynamic inherent in the word.

"impudence" in a sentence

  1. She was punished for her impudence in class.

    She was punished for her impudence in class.

  2. The reporter’s impudence earned him a swift dismissal from the press conference.

    The reporter’s impudence earned him a swift dismissal from the press conference.

  3. His habitual impudence toward his superiors eventually alienated every ally he had in the capital.

    His habitual impudence toward his superiors eventually alienated every ally he had in the capital.

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