impunity

American  

[im-pyoo-ni-tee] / ɪmˈpyu nɪ ti /

noun

1. exemption from punishment.

2. immunity from detrimental effects, as of an action.

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impunity British  

/ ɪmˈpjuːnɪtɪ /

noun

1. exemption or immunity from punishment or recrimination

2. exemption or immunity from unpleasant consequences

   a successful career marked by impunity from early mistakes

3. 1. with no unpleasant consequences

   2. with no care or heed for such consequences

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Related Words

See exemption.

Etymology

Origin of impunity

First recorded in 1525–35; from Middle French impunite or Latin impūnitāt-, stem of impūnitās, derivative of impūnis “without punishment, unpunished” (from the adverb impūne), equivalent to im- im- ² + -pūne, combining form of poena “penalty, pain” + -itās -ity

Example Sentences

However, someone who has amassed a vast fortune, especially through entrepreneurial skill, Mr. McGinnis argues, has greater freedom to act with impunity or champion unpopular causes.

From The Wall Street Journal

Conflicts are deliberately being turned into wars against civilians with drones and other technology and countries are flouting international law with impunity, the Red Cross chief said Friday.

From Barron's

The central question: Will there ever come a time when justice will prevail — and impunity will recede — in cases of Mexican journalists targeted by organized crime, corrupt politicians and others?

From Los Angeles Times

"All this work aims to bring the stories of victims to the world, countering secrecy -- the oppressor’s strongest ally -- and challenging injustice and impunity," Turk said.

From Barron's

The officers’ gait was unmistakable: They moved with the assurance of impunity.

From Salon

Related Words

• immunity