The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

compunction

IPA:

Dictionary definition of compunction

A feeling of guilt, remorse or regret about something you have done or might do.
"He felt a twinge of compunction for breaking his promise to his friend."

Detailed meaning of compunction

Compunction is a noun that refers to a feeling of uneasiness or anxiety for having done something wrong or for having failed to do something that one should have done. It is a sense of unease or uneasiness caused by the awareness of having done something that is wrong or that goes against one's conscience. It is a feeling of remorse or guilt that arises from the realization that one has done something that is morally or ethically wrong. Compunction is often accompanied by a sense of shame or guilt, and it can lead to feelings of regret or a desire to make amends. It can be described as a moral discomfort or guilt felt after committing a wrong.

In a general sense, compunction refers to a feeling of guilt, remorse or regret for having done something wrong or for having failed to do something that one should have done. It is a sense of unease or uneasiness caused by the awareness of having done something that is morally or ethically wrong, it is a feeling of remorse or guilt that leads to feelings of regret or a desire to make amends.

Example sentences containing compunction

1. She acted without compunction, determined to achieve her goal.
2. He felt no compunction about cheating on the test.
3. She was filled with compunction for her past actions and sought to make amends.
4. The thief had no compunction about stealing from the store.
5. He struggled with compunction over his decision to leave his family behind.
6. She had no compunction about lying to protect her secret.

History and etymology of compunction

The noun 'compunction' has its etymological roots in Latin, specifically from the word 'compunctio,' which is derived from 'compungere.' 'Compungere' is a combination of 'com,' meaning 'with,' and 'pungere,' meaning 'to prick' or 'to sting.' This Latin term conveys the idea of being pricked or stung by one's conscience or inner moral sense. Thus, 'compunction' refers to the feeling of guilt, remorse, or regret about something one has done or might do, where the inner moral compass 'pricks' or 'stings' one's conscience, prompting a sense of unease or regret. The etymology of 'compunction' underscores the notion of a moral and emotional response to one's actions, emphasizing the inner conflict and sense of wrongdoing that this term conveys.

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Further usage examples of compunction

1. He felt a deep sense of compunction for not being able to save the drowning child.
2. She had no compunction about exploiting the vulnerable for her own gain.
3. He was filled with compunction after realizing the harm his actions had caused.
4. She acted with compunction, always considering the consequences of her actions.
5. He felt a pang of compunction for betraying the trust of his closest friend.
6. He was known for his lack of compunction and was hired to implement efficiency measures and mass redundancies.
7. She felt compunction for her harsh words, wishing she could take them back.
8. His lack of compunction about the harm he caused troubled his conscience.
9. The thief showed no compunction as he stole from the vulnerable.
10. Her compunction grew as she realized the consequences of her actions.
11. He confessed his misdeeds with genuine compunction.
12. The decision was made without compunction, despite the potential harm.
13. Their compunction was evident in their sincere apologies.
14. The leader acted with compunction, admitting the mistake and seeking amends.
15. She acted out of compunction to right the wrong she had done.
16. His compunction led him to donate to the charity.
17. The criminal showed no compunction for the pain he caused.
18. The politician's lack of compunction was criticized by the public.
19. The thief's compunction eventually led to a change of heart.
20. She acted with compunction, knowing her actions had hurt her friends.
21. His compunction grew as he saw the consequences of his decisions.
22. The employee's compunction was evident in her efforts to make amends.
23. The teacher's compunction drove her to help struggling students.
24. Their compunction pushed them to apologize and seek forgiveness.
25. He showed compunction for the damage his negligence had caused.
26. Her compunction guided her towards making ethical choices.