impunity
What does "impunity" mean?
Impunity refers to the state of being exempt from punishment, penalty, or negative consequences for one's actions. Imagine a situation where someone breaks a rule or commits a serious wrongdoing, yet they walk away completely untouched, as if the laws or social repercussions simply do not apply to them. This word is most frequently used in political, legal, or journalistic contexts to describe corruption or human rights abuses. It carries a strong sense of injustice, implying that the person or group acting with impunity has a level of power or protection that allows them to ignore accountability.
"impunity" in conversation
Discussing a corrupt official
I can't believe the mayor is still in office after the scandal.
I can't believe the mayor is still in office after the scandal.
It's infuriating. He acts with total impunity because he controls the local police.
It's infuriating. He acts with total impunity because he controls the local police.
Used to describe how power protects someone from the consequences of their actions.
Debating school rules
The seniors are breaking all the dress code rules again.
The seniors are breaking all the dress code rules again.
They do it with impunity since the teachers have given up on enforcing them.
They do it with impunity since the teachers have given up on enforcing them.
Shows that the term can also apply to less serious, everyday social situations.
"impunity" in a sentence
The criminal walked away with impunity.
The criminal walked away with impunity.
The treaty ensures that war crimes will not be committed with impunity.
The treaty ensures that war crimes will not be committed with impunity.
The regime operated with such impunity that it openly disregarded international sanctions.
The regime operated with such impunity that it openly disregarded international sanctions.
