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lawlessness

noun

/ˈlɔ lɪs nɪs/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of lawlessness

A state or condition characterized by a lack of adherence to laws, rules, or regulations.
"The rise of organized crime led to increased lawlessness in the region."

Detailed meaning of lawlessness

It signifies a disregard or defiance of established legal frameworks and social norms, resulting in disorder, chaos, or anarchy. Lawlessness can manifest in various forms, including criminal activities, civil disobedience, or the absence of effective governance and law enforcement. It implies a breakdown of order and the erosion of social order and stability. In a state of lawlessness, individuals or groups may engage in unlawful behaviors, such as violence, theft, or fraud, with minimal fear of consequences. Lawlessness often arises from a combination of factors, such as social unrest, political instability, weak institutions, or economic disparities. It highlights the importance of maintaining a functional legal system and upholding the rule of law to ensure the protection of rights, maintain public order, and promote a just and orderly society.

Example sentences containing lawlessness

1. The city experienced a period of lawlessness after the collapse of its government.
2. The riots were fueled by a sense of lawlessness and frustration among the population.
3. The vigilante group formed in response to the perceived lawlessness in their neighborhood.
4. The government implemented strict measures to combat the growing problem of lawlessness.
5. The absence of law enforcement resulted in a state of lawlessness in the rural areas.
6. The film depicted a dystopian society plagued by lawlessness and anarchy.

History and etymology of lawlessness

The noun 'lawlessness' can be dissected by examining its components. It is formed from the word 'law,' which originates from the Old English 'lagu,' meaning a rule or regulation, and the suffix '-less,' which denotes the absence of something. Therefore, 'lawlessness' etymologically signifies a state or condition characterized by a lack of adherence to laws, rules, or regulations. Its etymology underscores the fundamental role of laws in governing societies and the disruptive nature of a state where these rules are not observed or respected, emphasizing the importance of legal systems in maintaining order and justice.

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Further usage examples of lawlessness

1. The business owner installed surveillance cameras to deter acts of lawlessness.
2. The community banded together to restore order and combat the prevailing lawlessness.
3. The journalist investigated the causes and consequences of the city's lawlessness.
4. The humanitarian organization provided aid and support to communities affected by lawlessness.
5. The courtroom was filled with frustration and anger at the accused's blatant lawlessness.
6. The city descended into chaos and lawlessness after the disaster.
7. Lawlessness in the region has led to increased crime rates.
8. The mayor vowed to combat the rising tide of lawlessness.
9. Lawlessness can undermine the foundations of a society.
10. The sheriff worked tirelessly to curb lawlessness in the town.
11. The gang's activities were a symbol of urban lawlessness.
12. Lawlessness breeds fear and uncertainty among citizens.
13. The police are struggling to contain the lawlessness.
14. The government imposed a curfew to combat lawlessness.
15. Lawlessness in the digital realm poses new challenges.
16. The riots were a manifestation of widespread lawlessness.
17. Economic disparities can contribute to feelings of lawlessness.
18. Lawlessness can hinder economic and social development.
19. The community rallied together to combat neighborhood lawlessness.
20. Political instability often leads to increased lawlessness.
21. Lawlessness can erode trust in public institutions.
22. The rise of lawlessness calls for stricter law enforcement.
23. Effective governance can help mitigate lawlessness.
24. Lawlessness undermines the rule of law and justice.
25. Citizens demanded action to address the growing lawlessness.