Word: Contravene
Part of Speech: Verb
Definition: To contravene means to go against a rule, law, or agreement. When someone contravenes something, they are breaking that rule or law.
Usage Instructions:
Tense: It can be used in different tenses, such as "contravenes" (present), "contravened" (past), and "contravening" (present participle).
It is often used in formal contexts, such as legal or academic discussions.
Examples:
Basic Example: "If you contravene the school rules, you might get detention."
Advanced Example: "The company was fined because it contravened environmental regulations."
Word Variants:
Contravention (noun): The act of going against a rule or law. Example: "The contravention of the law led to a court case."
Contravening (present participle): The act of going against. Example: "They are contravening the terms of the contract."
Different Meanings:
The primary meaning of "contravene" relates to laws and rules. It does not have other meanings, but it can be used in various contexts, such as legal, ethical, or social.
Synonyms:
Violate
Break
Disobey
Infringe
Transgress
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
While "contravene" does not have specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly associated with it, you might encounter phrases like "run afoul of the law," which means to get into trouble with the law, similar to contravening it.
Summary:
To contravene is to oppose or break a rule or law. It is important to use this word in contexts where there are specific regulations or agreements involved.