noun Uncommon

impunity

ihm-PYOO-nih-tee

Impunity (noun) means Freedom from punishment or consequences for something wrong you've done. Example: “The dictator ruled for decades with impunity, never facing trial for his crimes.”

noun

Freedom from punishment or consequences for something wrong you've done.

"The dictator ruled for decades with impunity, never facing trial for his crimes."

"You can't just break the rules with impunity and expect no one to notice."

How to Use Impunity

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishGetting away with something — acting badly without being punished for it.

Common mistake

Almost always used in the phrase "with impunity" — it's rarely a standalone subject or object.

Common pairings

act with impunity with total impunity impunity for crimes

Word Forms

impunities plural

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The dictator ruled for decades with _____, never facing trial for his crimes.

Etymology

From Middle French impunité, from Latin impunitas, built from impunis, "without punishment."

Origin: Latin

Rhymes for impunity

city pity deity acuity parity entity brevity opacity paucity ability quality reality

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does “impunity” mean?

The word “impunity” means freedom from punishment or consequences for something wrong you've done. In plain terms, getting away with something — acting badly without being punished for it.

How do you pronounce “impunity”?

“Impunity” is pronounced ihm-PYOO-nih-tee (/ɪmˈpjuːnɪti/ in IPA).

How do you use “impunity” in a sentence?

Here is “impunity” used in a sentence: “The dictator ruled for decades with impunity, never facing trial for his crimes.”

What part of speech is “impunity”?

“Impunity” is a noun.

Where does the word “impunity” come from?

The word “impunity” comes from Latin. From Middle French impunité, from Latin impunitas, built from impunis, "without punishment.".

Is “impunity” a common word?

“Impunity” is an uncommon word in modern English.