violation
vye-uh-LAY-shun
/ˌvaɪəˈleɪʃn/
An act or instance of breaking or failing to comply with a law, regulation, or traffic rule.
A broader term than infraction; can encompass minor infractions as well as major criminal driving offenses.
The story behind the word. Rooted in Latin 'vis' (force or power), 'violare' initially meant using force against someone or desecrating something sacred. In Middle English, it expanded into jurisprudence to mean forcefully setting aside or disregarding a law or legal boundary.
Word relationships
- breach: Breach is often used for contracts or security, whereas violation is standard for traffic laws and statutory codes.
- observance: Observance means obeying laws, whereas violation means breaking them.
Commonly confused with
- infraction: Infraction refers specifically to minor, non-criminal offenses, while violation covers any law-breaking regardless of severity.
Word family
- violate (verb): To break or act against a rule or law.
- violator (noun): A person who violates a law.
Collocations
- moving violation
- traffic violation
- repeat violation
- commit a violation
Example sentences
- "Running a red light is a serious moving violation that can add points to your state driving record." Traffic Law
- "Repeated speed limit violations within twelve months will lead to an automatic driver's license suspension." Safety Record
Memory hook
VIOLATion is VIOLent treatment of traffic rules. VIOLATION = breaking a law.
When not to use
Avoid using 'violation' to refer to the ticket paper itself; use 'citation' for the document.
Fun facts
- The most common moving violation worldwide is exceeding the posted speed limit, accounting for over 50% of all traffic stops.
Related words
Explore more words
infraction, Breach, infringement, transgression, misconduct, infringe
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