impiety
/im'paiəti/
Definition
Impiety (noun) 1. Lack of respect or reverence for a god, deity, or sacred things; the quality of being impious. - This is the core meaning, describing an attitude or state of being that shows irreverence toward what is considered holy or divine. 2. An impious act; a specific action that shows disrespect for the sacred. - This meaning refers to a concrete instance or behavior demonstrating such irreverence.
Usage
The word "impiety" is a formal term, often used in religious, philosophical, or historical contexts to describe a serious moral or spiritual failing. It is the opposite of "piety."
Examples
- The ancient philosopher was accused of impiety for questioning the existence of the city's gods.
- His refusal to kneel in the temple was seen as an act of impiety.
- The novel explores the themes of faith and impiety in a modern society.
Advanced Usage
- Charges of impiety: Historically, this was a serious legal or social accusation, as seen in the trial of Socrates.
- Socrates was sentenced to death on charges of impiety and corrupting the youth.
- As a philosophical concept: Used to discuss the relationship between humans, the divine, and moral duty.
- The debate centered on whether skepticism constituted impiety or intellectual honesty.
Variants and Related Words
- Impious (adjective): Characterized by impiety; not pious.
- He was criticized for his impious remarks about the ceremony.
- Impiety is the noun form. The adverbial form is impiously.
Synonyms
- Irreverence: Lack of respect for things that are generally taken seriously.
- Godlessness: The state of not believing in or recognizing a god. (Note: This can be more neutral, while "impiety" often implies a conscious disrespect.)
- Blasphemy: Profane talk or action concerning God or sacred things. (Often stronger and more specific than "impiety.")
- Sacrilege: Violation or misuse of what is regarded as sacred. (Often refers to a specific act.)
Antonyms
- Piety: The quality of being religious or reverent.
- Devotion: Love, loyalty, or enthusiasm for a person, activity, or cause, often religious.
- Reverence: Deep respect for someone or something.
Related Phrases and Idioms
- An act of impiety: A phrase used to label a specific deed as disrespectful to the sacred.
- Destroying the ancient altar was considered an unforgivable act of impiety.
- To be guilty of impiety: To be responsible for showing such disrespect.
- The ruler was declared guilty of impiety for defying the high priest.
Noun
-
unrighteousness by virtue of lacking respect for a god
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