with impunity

/wɪð ɪmˈpjuː.nə.ti/
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Without being punished or suffering consequences.

Examples

  • He lied with impunity, or so it seemed.
  • No one should be able to intimidate witnesses with impunity.
  • They polluted the river with impunity.
  • Officials broke the rules with impunity.
  • The gang operated with impunity for years.

Similar words

scot-free
without punishment
without consequences

Meanings

Free from punishment

justice
formal
Usually follows a wrongful act to say the person can do it without being held accountable.

Examples

  • Officials broke the rules with impunity.
  • The gang operated with impunity for years.
  • No one should be able to intimidate witnesses with impunity.
  • He lied with impunity, or so it seemed.
  • They polluted the river with impunity.

Similar words

Etymology

Impunity comes from Latin impunitas, from impunis, unpunished.

FAQ

What does with impunity mean?

With impunity means without punishment.

When is with impunity used?

It usually follows an act that ought to have consequences.

How does with impunity differ from without consequences?

Without consequences is broader; with impunity often concerns wrongdoing.

How is with impunity used in a sentence?

Officials broke the rules with impunity.

Is with impunity formal?

Yes, it is fairly formal and often critical.

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