transgress
tranz-GRESS
/trænzˈɡres/
To go beyond the bounds of a moral principle or other established standard of behavior.
Transgress is a strong, formal word often used in religious or legal contexts to describe 'crossing the line' of what is acceptable.
The story behind the word. From 'trans-' (across) and 'gradi' (to step). It literally means to step across a line. In the Middle Ages, it was heavily used in a religious sense to describe sinning.
Word relationships
- violate: Violate is a general term for breaking a rule; transgress specifically implies 'stepping across' a boundary.
- infringe: Infringe is often used for rights or copyrights; transgress is used for moral or social boundaries.
- obey: Obey is to follow the rules, while transgress is to step over them.
Commonly confused with
- impropriety: Transgress is the act of breaking the rule; impropriety is the quality of being improper.
Word family
- transgression (noun): An act that goes against a law.
- transgressor (noun): A person who breaks a rule.
Collocations
- transgress a boundary
- transgress the law
- transgress social norms
- transgress a limit
Example sentences
- "I have no desire to transgress the laws of the land, but my conscience must come first." Literature
- "The artist sought to transgress traditional boundaries of gender and identity through her work." Social Commentary
Memory hook
When you 'transgress', you 'gress' (step) 'trans' (across) the line. Step across the line to transgress.
When not to use
Do not use 'transgress' for minor accidents; it implies a significant violation of a boundary or rule.
Fun facts
- The word 'progress' means to step forward, while 'transgress' means to step across.
Related words
Explore more words
infringe, aberrant, infringement, Breach, propriety, misconduct
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