Online English Vocabulary Flashcards for Prefix im- Words
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Delve into "im-", a prefix often denoting negation or inward movement. It's seen in words like "impossible" and "impress," either reversing the meaning of the base word or suggesting an inward action or influence.
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imbecile

Includes synonyms, etymology, and a detailed definition.
Part of Speech
noun
Definition
An individual who is considered to be intellectually deficient or lacking in intelligence.
Example Sentence
"The character in the movie was portrayed as a bumbling imbecile for comedic effect."
Complete Flashcards List for Prefix im- with Definitions, POS, IPA, Examples, Synonyms, and Antonyms
imbecile (noun) /ˈɪm bə sɪl/
Definition: An individual who is considered to be intellectually deficient or lacking in intelligence.
Example Sentence: "The character in the movie was portrayed as a bumbling imbecile for comedic effect."
Synonyms: blockhead; dimwit; dolt; dunce; fool; halfwit
Opposite Meaning: genius
imbibe (verb) /ɪmˈbaɪb/
Definition: To drink or consume a liquid, typically referring to alcoholic beverages or other drinks.
Example Sentence: "The travelers stopped to imbibe some local wine at the vineyard."
Synonyms: consume; down; drink; gulp; guzzle; ingest
Opposite Meaning: abstain
imbroglio (noun) ɪmˈbrəʊlɪəʊ/
Definition: A complicated and confusing situation, often involving a lot of conflicting interests or emotions.
Example Sentence: "The imbroglio surrounding the election results caused widespread controversy."
Synonyms: bind; dilemma; jam; mess; muddle; pickle
Opposite Meaning: simplicity
imbue (verb) /ɪmˈbjuː/
Definition: To inspire or influence something or someone with a particular quality, feeling, or idea.
Example Sentence: "His words imbue a sense of hope and optimism in those who hear them."
Synonyms: inculcate; infuse; ingrain; instil; permeate; pervade
Opposite Meaning: drain
immaculate (adjective) /ɪˈmæk yə lɪt/
Definition: Completely free from any flaws or blemishes, both literally and figuratively.
Example Sentence: "The snow on the mountain was immaculate, untouched and pure."
Synonyms: clean; faultless; flawless; impeccable; perfect; pristine
Opposite Meaning: dirty
immaterial (adjective) /ˌɪməˈtɪərɪəl/
Definition: Not relevant, significant, or important in a particular context or situation.
Example Sentence: "The slight delay was immaterial in the grand scheme of things."
Synonyms: extraneous; inconsequential; inconsiderable; insignificant; irrelevant; meaningless
Opposite Meaning: pertinent
immature (adjective) /ˈɪm əˈtʃʊər/
Definition: Characterized by a lack of emotional, intellectual, or social development, typically associated with younger individuals or those who have not fully matured.
Example Sentence: "The student's immature writing style indicated a need for further development in their language skills."
Synonyms: adolescent; callow; childish; inexperienced; infantile; juvenile
Opposite Meaning: mature
immeasurable (adjective) /ɪˈmɛʒ ər ə bəl/
Definition: Cannot be measured or quantified accurately due to its vastness, extent, or magnitude.
Example Sentence: "The immeasurable beauty of the mountains took my breath away."
Synonyms: boundless; endless; immense; incalculable; inexhaustible; infinite
Opposite Meaning: limited
immemorial (adjective) /ˌɪməˈmɔːrɪəl/
Definition: Referring to a time so ancient and distant that it exists beyond the bounds of human memory or recorded history.
Example Sentence: "The beauty of the starry night sky has captivated humans since time immemorial."
Synonyms: ageless; ancient; antediluvian; antiquated; antique; archaic
Opposite Meaning: recent
immense (adjective) /ɪˈmɛns/
Definition: Extraordinarily large in size, extent, or magnitude.
Example Sentence: "The hiker marveled at the immense size of the ancient redwood trees."
Synonyms: colossal; enormous; expansive; gigantic; huge; mammoth
Opposite Meaning: small
immerse (verb) /ɪˈmɜrs/
Definition: To fully involve or absorb oneself or something in a particular activity, experience, or environment.
Example Sentence: "She decided to immerse herself in learning a new language during her summer break."
Synonyms: absorb; bury; drench; engross; infuse; involve
Opposite Meaning: ignore
immigrant (noun) /ˈɪm ɪ grənt/
Definition: An individual who moves to a different country with the intention of permanently residing there.
Example Sentence: "The immigrant arrived at the airport with a suitcase full of dreams and hopes for a better life."
Synonyms: alien; expat; expatriate; foreigner; migrant; newcomer
Opposite Meaning: native
imminent (adjective) /ˈɪmɪnənt/
Definition: About to happen or occur in the very near future, often suggesting that it is impending or about to take place at any moment.
Example Sentence: "The launch of the rocket was imminent and the team was making final checks."
Synonyms: approaching; coming; forthcoming; impending; looming; nearing
Opposite Meaning: distant
immobile (adjective) /ɪˈmoʊ bəl/
Definition: Incapable of movement or unable to be moved easily.
Example Sentence: "The abandoned ship lay immobile in the harbor, covered in rust and seaweed."
Synonyms: dormant; fixed; inert; motionless; rooted; stable
Opposite Meaning: movable
immoral (adjective) /ɪˈmɔr əl/
Definition: Inconsistent with accepted moral standards or principles.
Example Sentence: "Cheating on an exam is an immoral act that undermines the principles of fairness and integrity."
Synonyms: corrupt; depraved; dishonest; evil; nefarious; sinful
Opposite Meaning: moral
immunity (noun) /ɪˈmyu nɪ ti/
Definition: The state or condition of being immune, which implies having a heightened resistance or protection against a particular disease, infection, or harmful substance.
Example Sentence: "A strong immune system is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being."
Synonyms: defense; exemption; fortification; imperviousness; indemnity; insusceptibility
Opposite Meaning: susceptibility
immure (verb) /ɪˈmyʊər/
Definition: To enclose or confine someone or something within a structure, often with the intent of isolating them from the outside world.
Example Sentence: "The author chose to immure himself in a remote cabin to finish his novel."
Synonyms: cage; corral; encage; encase; envelop; imprison
Opposite Meaning: release
immutable (adjective) /ɪˈmjuːtəb(ə)l/
Definition: Unchanging, unalterable, or incapable of being modified or transformed.
Example Sentence: "The laws of physics are immutable and cannot be changed."
Synonyms: changeless; constant; enduring; fixed; invariable; perpetual
Opposite Meaning: changeable
impact (noun) /ˈɪm pækt/
Definition: The powerful or significant effect that an event, action, or object has on something or someone.
Example Sentence: "The car accident had a devastating impact on the lives of those involved."
Synonyms: aftermath; consequence; effect; impression; influence; mark
Opposite Meaning: insignificance
impair (verb) /ɪmˈpɛr/
Definition: To weaken or damage something, often by causing a reduction in quality or functionality.
Example Sentence: "Lack of sleep can impair your cognitive abilities."
Synonyms: damage; decrease; deteriorate; diminish; erode; hinder
Opposite Meaning: enhance
impale (verb) /ɪmˈpeɪl/
Definition: To pierce or thrust a pointed object through something or someone, usually with great force.
Example Sentence: "The knight lifted his lance, ready to impale the charging beast."
Synonyms: gore; lance; penetrate; pierce; skewer; spear
Opposite Meaning: remove
impart (verb) /ɪmˈpɑːt/
Definition: To communicate or pass on information, knowledge, or a skill to someone else.
Example Sentence: "The mentor was able to impart valuable insights to the young entrepreneur."
Synonyms: bestow; confer; convey; disclose; divulge; grant
Opposite Meaning: withhold
impasse (noun) /amˈpɑːs/
Definition: A state of being in which a situation or dispute cannot be resolved or progressed any further.
Example Sentence: "The negotiations have reached an impasse and no further progress can be made."
Synonyms: deadlock; dilemma; gridlock; jam; logjam; predicament
Opposite Meaning: resolution
impassioned (adjective) /ɪmˈpaʃnd/
Definition: Deeply or strongly moved by a particular feeling or emotion.
Example Sentence: "The speaker delivered an impassioned speech that moved the audience to tears."
Synonyms: charged; emotional; fervent; fiery; heated; inspired
Opposite Meaning: apathetic
impassive (adjective) /ɪmˈpasɪv/
Definition: Displaying a remarkable and often deliberate lack of emotion or expression, especially in situations that would typically elicit strong feelings or reactions.
Example Sentence: "The impassive face of the poker player made it impossible to read his hand."
Synonyms: apathetic; calm; cool; detached; emotionless; expressionless
Opposite Meaning: expressive
impeach (verb) /ɪmˈpiːtʃ/
Definition: To officially charge and try a public official, such as a president or governor, with wrongdoing while in office.
Example Sentence: "The House of Representatives can impeach government officials for misconduct."
Synonyms: accuse; allege; arraign; censure; challenge; charge
Opposite Meaning: absolve
impeccable (adjective) /ɪmˈpɛkəb(ə)l/
Definition: Faultless, flawless, and in accordance with the highest standards.
Example Sentence: "She was prized for her impeccable work ethic and scrutinous attention to detail."
Synonyms: exemplary; faultless; flawless; ideal; immaculate; irreproachable
Opposite Meaning: flawed
impecunious (adjective) /ˌɪmpɪˈkjuːnɪəs/
Definition: Extremely poor or lacking in financial resources, often to the point of financial hardship or destitution.
Example Sentence: "The impecunious family could not afford to pay for the medical treatment."
Synonyms: bankrupt; broke; destitute; impoverished; indigent; insolvent
Opposite Meaning: wealthy
impediment (noun) /ɪmˈpɛdɪm(ə)nt/
Definition: Something that obstructs or hinders progress or achievement.
Example Sentence: "The lack of resources was an impediment to the charity's ability to help those in need."
Synonyms: barrier; deterrent; difficulty; drawback; encumbrance; handicap
Opposite Meaning: aid
impel (verb) /əˈliːvɪeɪt/
Definition: To drive or urge someone or something to take a particular action or to behave in a certain way.
Example Sentence: "Strong moral convictions can impel individuals to take a stand for justice."
Synonyms: compel; goad; incite; induce; influence; inspire
Opposite Meaning: deter
impeller (noun) /ɪmˈpɛl ər/
Definition: A rotating component within a machine or device that is responsible for creating fluid flow or generating propulsion.
Example Sentence: "The turbine's impeller blades captured the force of the flowing river, generating electricity."
Synonyms: agitator; blade; fan; mixer; paddle; propeller
Opposite Meaning: stationary
impending (adjective) /ɪmˈpɛndɪŋ/
Definition: Approaching or looming on the horizon, typically referring to an event, situation, or occurrence that is about to happen in the near future.
Example Sentence: "She could feel the impending deadline looming over her."
Synonyms: approaching; brewing; coming; imminent; looming; nearing
Opposite Meaning: receding
impenetrable (adjective) /ɪmˈpɛnɪtrəbl/
Definition: Impossible to pass through, break into, or understand, typically due to extreme density, toughness, complexity, or obscurity.
Example Sentence: "The fortress was protected by an impenetrable wall that kept out invaders."
Synonyms: bulletproof; hermetic; impassable; impermeable; impervious; inaccessible
Opposite Meaning: permeable
imperative (adjective) /ɪmˈpɛrətɪv/
Definition: Absolutely necessary or crucial, and must be done regardless of other considerations.
Example Sentence: "He believed that it was imperative to invest in the company's future."
Synonyms: compulsory; crucial; essential; exigent; important; mandatory
Opposite Meaning: optional
imperialism (noun) /ɪmˈpɪərɪəl/
Definition: A political and economic system in which a powerful nation extends its influence, control, and authority over other territories, often far beyond its own borders.
Example Sentence: "Imperialism led to the colonization of vast territories in Africa, Asia, and the Americas."
Synonyms: colonialism; conquest; control; dominance; empire; expansionism
Opposite Meaning: decolonization
imperious (adjective) /ɪmˈpɪərɪəs/
Definition: Haughty, domineering, or overbearing in behavior or attitude.
Example Sentence: "The imperious tone of the letter made it clear that the request was not to be denied."
Synonyms: arrogant; authoritarian; authoritative; autocratic; bossy; commanding
Opposite Meaning: submissive
imperium (noun) /ɪmˈpɪər i əm/
Definition: The supreme power or authority held by a ruler or government over a specific region or territory.
Example Sentence: "The emperor wielded vast imperium over the lands he conquered."
Synonyms: command; control; dominion; hegemony; mastery; reign
Opposite Meaning: subjection
impermeable (adjective) /ɪmˈpɜr mi ə bəl/
Definition: Resistant or impervious to the passage or penetration of substances or elements, such as liquids, gases, or even light.
Example Sentence: "A surgeon's gloves are impermeable to bacteria, providing a safe environment during medical procedures."
Synonyms: impenetrable; impervious; impregnable; indestructible; invulnerable; resistant
Opposite Meaning: permeable
impertinent (adjective) /ɪmˈpəːtɪnənt/
Definition: Rude, disrespectful, or inappropriate in behavior or speech.
Example Sentence: "He was in no position to ask his boss such an impertinent question."
Synonyms: audacious; brash; cheeky; discourteous; disrespectful; forward
Opposite Meaning: polite
imperturbable (adjective) /ˌɪmpəˈtəːbəbl/
Definition: Calm, composed, and unshakable, even in difficult or stressful situations.
Example Sentence: "He was an imperturbable negotiator, never getting flustered or agitated."
Synonyms: collected; cool; equanimous; serene; stoic; tranquil
Opposite Meaning: excitable
impervious (adjective) /ɪmˈpəːvɪəs/
Definition: Resistant or unaffected by external influences, forces, or factors.
Example Sentence: "The fortress was considered impervious to attack."
Synonyms: immune; impenetrable; impermeable; insusceptible; invulnerable; resistant
Opposite Meaning: susceptible
impetuous (adjective) /ɪmˈpɛtjʊəs/
Definition: Characterized by impulsiveness, rashness, and a tendency to act quickly and without careful thought or consideration of consequences.
Example Sentence: "The impetuous investor lost all of his money by making hasty trades."
Synonyms: foolhardy; impromptu; imprudent; incautious; injudicious; rash
Opposite Meaning: cautious
impetus (noun) /ˈɪmpɪtəs/
Definition: The force or energy that drives a person or thing to action or movement.
Example Sentence: "The success of the project provided the impetus for further research."
Synonyms: catalyst; encouragement; impulse; incentive; momentum; motivation
Opposite Meaning: hindrance
impinge (verb) /ɪmˈpɪn(d)ʒ/
Definition: To have a negative impact or influence on something, often in a gradual or subtle way.
Example Sentence: "The traffic congestion was starting to impinge on their plans for the day."
Synonyms: affect; disturb; encroach; impact; influence; infringe
Opposite Meaning: avoid
impious (adjective) /ˈɪm pi əs/
Definition: Showing a lack of reverence, respect, or disregard towards religious or sacred matters.
Example Sentence: "Her impious jokes about sacred texts were in very poor taste."
Synonyms: atheistic; blasphemous; disrespectful; godless; heathen; heretical
Opposite Meaning: pious
impish (adjective) /ˈɪm pɪʃ/
Definition: Possessing a mischievous, playful, or teasing nature.
Example Sentence: "Her impish nature made her the life of the party, always ready with a clever joke or prank."
Synonyms: cheeky; frolicsome; jocular; lively; mischievous; playful
Opposite Meaning: serious
implacable (adjective) /ɪmˈplakəb(ə)l/
Definition: Characterized by an unwavering, unyielding, and unrelenting determination or hostility that cannot be appeased or pacified.
Example Sentence: "Despite his best efforts, he could not appease his implacable boss."
Synonyms: adamant; determined; inexorable; inflexible; intractable; relentless
Opposite Meaning: flexible
implausible (adjective) /ɪmˈplɔ zə bəl/
Definition: Difficult to believe or accept due to a lack of credibility, logic, or reason.
Example Sentence: "The story he told was so implausible that nobody believed a word of it."
Synonyms: doubtful; fantastical; improbable; inconceivable; incredible; preposterous
Opposite Meaning: plausible
implement (verb) /ˈɪmpləmənt/
Definition: To put into effect a plan, decision, or agreement.
Example Sentence: "We need to implement new safety protocols to protect our employees."
Synonyms: administer; apply; complete; enact; execute; fulfill
Opposite Meaning: neglect
implicate (verb) /ˈɪmplɪkeɪt/
Definition: To suggest or indicate that someone or something is involved in a particular action or event, often with negative connotations.
Example Sentence: "The leaked document could potentially implicate several high-ranking officials."
Synonyms: accuse; blame; compromise; embroil; entangle; entwine
Opposite Meaning: exonerate
implication (noun) /ˌɪmplɪˈkeɪʃn/
Definition: A meaning or consequence that is suggested or implied, rather than stated outright.
Example Sentence: "His remarks carried an implication of deep skepticism."
Synonyms: inference; insinuation; intimation; meaning; presumption; ramification
Opposite Meaning: clarification
implicit (adjective) /ɪmˈplɪsɪt/
Definition: Understood or implied from context, circumstances, or underlying assumptions without being explicitly stated.
Example Sentence: "The agreement had implicit terms that were not explicitly stated."
Synonyms: implied; inferred; insinuated; suggested; tacit; understood
Opposite Meaning: explicit
implore (verb) /ɪmˈplɔː/
Definition: To passionately and earnestly beg or plead with someone to do something.
Example Sentence: "The children implore their teacher for more playtime."
Synonyms: appeal; beseech; crave; entreat; importune; petition
Opposite Meaning: command
imply (verb) /ɪmˈplaɪ/
Definition: To indirectly suggest, hint at, or convey a meaning or message without explicitly stating it.
Example Sentence: "The politician's speech seemed to imply a change in policy without explicitly stating it."
Synonyms: allude; betoken; connote; convey; hint; indicate
Opposite Meaning: declare
importune (verb) /ˌɪm pɔrˈtun/
Definition: To persistently and repeatedly ask or request something from someone, often in an insistent or annoying manner.
Example Sentence: "Despite her refusal, he continued to importune her for a date."
Synonyms: beg; beseech; hassle; implore; insist; nag
Opposite Meaning: repel
imposing (adjective) /ɪmˈpoʊ zɪŋ/
Definition: Commanding attention, respect, or admiration due to their impressive or intimidating appearance, size, or presence.
Example Sentence: "The imposing presence of the professional athlete on the field inspired his teammates and struck fear into the hearts of his opponents."
Synonyms: commanding; dominant; formidable; grand; impressive; majestic
Opposite Meaning: unimpressive
imposter (noun) /ɪmˈpɒs tər/
Definition: An individual who pretends to be someone else, typically with the intention of deceiving others.
Example Sentence: "The imposter managed to convince everyone at the party that he was a famous actor."
Synonyms: charlatan; counterfeit; deceiver; fake; fraud; imitator
Opposite Meaning: authentic
impotent (adjective) /ˈɪmpət(ə)nt/
Definition: Powerless, weak, or lacking in the ability to exert control, influence, or achieve a desired effect.
Example Sentence: "The company's impotent leadership led to its eventual downfall."
Synonyms: enervated; feeble; frail; incapable; incapacitated; ineffective
Opposite Meaning: powerful
impound (verb) /ɪmˈpaʊnd/
Definition: To confiscate or seize something, typically by a government or legal authority.
Example Sentence: "The bank can impound your assets if you default on a loan."
Synonyms: apprehend; capture; commandeer; constrain; immure; imprison
Opposite Meaning: return
impoverish (verb) /ɪmˈpɒv ər ɪʃ/
Definition: To make someone or something poor or lacking in resources, typically through the depletion or reduction of wealth, opportunities, or essential means of sustenance.
Example Sentence: "Corruption and mismanagement will impoverish this country if not dealt with."
Synonyms: bankrupt; decimate; deplete; devalue; diminish; drain
Opposite Meaning: enrich
impoverished (adjective) /ɪmˈpɒv(ə)rɪʃt/
Definition: Extremely poor, lacking in financial resources, and struggling to meet basic needs.
Example Sentence: "The war left the country impoverished and struggling to rebuild."
Synonyms: bankrupt; beggared; depleted; deprived; destitute; impecunious
Opposite Meaning: wealthy
impregnable (adjective) /ɪmˈprɛɡnəbl/
Definition: Exceptionally strong, secure, and resistant to being conquered, breached, or overcome.
Example Sentence: "The city's defenses were impregnable, making it difficult to conquer."
Synonyms: formidable; fortified; impenetrable; impervious; indestructible; invincible
Opposite Meaning: vulnerable
impregnate (verb) /ɪmˈprɛg neɪt/
Definition: To fertilize or cause pregnancy in a female organism, typically in the context of sexual reproduction.
Example Sentence: "The bee's role is to impregnate the flowers for pollination."
Synonyms: breed; charge; engender; fertilize; fill; imbue
Opposite Meaning: sterilize
impress (verb) /ɪmˈprɛs/
Definition: To make a strong, lasting, or favorable impact on someone's mind, emotions, or opinion.
Example Sentence: "The talented pianist never failed to impress the audience with her stunning performances."
Synonyms: amaze; astound; awe; captivate; charm; dazzle
Opposite Meaning: disappoint
impression (noun) /ɪmˈprɛʃ ən/
Definition: The overall effect or impact that something or someone has on others, often resulting from a first encounter or experience.
Example Sentence: "Her confident demeanor made a strong impression during the job interview."
Synonyms: belief; copy; effect; feeling; image; impact
Opposite Meaning: insignificance
impressionable (adjective) /ɪmˈprɛʃ(ə)nəb(ə)l/
Definition: Easily influenced or affected by external factors.
Example Sentence: "The impressionable teenager was easily swayed by peer pressure."
Synonyms: adaptable; easygoing; flexible; gullible; influenceable; malleable
Opposite Meaning: unswayed
imprint (noun) /ˈɪm prɪnt/
Definition: A mark, pattern, or design that is permanently pressed, engraved, or stamped onto a surface.
Example Sentence: "The animal's paw left an imprint in the soft sand."
Synonyms: badge; brand; design; impression; indentation; insignia
Opposite Meaning: erase
impromptu (adjective) /ɪmˈprɒm(p)tjuː/
Definition: Done or spoken without preparation or advance planning.
Example Sentence: "The band played an impromptu jam session during their break."
Synonyms: ad-lib; extemporaneous; extemporary; extemporized; improvised; offhand
Opposite Meaning: planned
improper (adjective) /ɪmˈprɒp ər/
Definition: Not in accordance with accepted standards, rules, or principles.
Example Sentence: "The employee received a warning for his improper use of company resources."
Synonyms: inappropriate; incorrect; indecent; irregular; misguided; unacceptable
Opposite Meaning: proper
impropriety (noun) /ˌɪmprəˈprʌɪəti/
Definition: Failure to observe social norms or etiquette by displaying behaviour that is improper or inappropriate.
Example Sentence: "Her shocking impropriety at the formal dinner left guests astounded."
Synonyms: dishonesty; illegitimacy; immodesty; immorality; impoliteness; inappropriateness
Opposite Meaning: propriety
improve (verb) /ɪmˈpruv/
Definition: To make something better or enhance its quality, condition, or performance.
Example Sentence: "The software update included several features designed to improve user experience."
Synonyms: advance; ameliorate; better; boost; develop; elevate
Opposite Meaning: worsen
improvise (verb) /ˈɪmprəvʌɪz/
Definition: To create or perform something spontaneously, without prior preparation or planning.
Example Sentence: "The chef had to improvise a new recipe with the limited ingredients available."
Synonyms: ad-lib; brainstorm; concoct; contrive; devise; hatch
Opposite Meaning: plan
improvised (adjective) /ˈɪm prəˌvaɪzd/
Definition: Created, performed, or done on the spot or without prior planning or preparation.
Example Sentence: "The actors performed an improvised scene, creating spontaneous dialogue and actions."
Synonyms: ad-lib; extemporaneous; extemporary; impromptu; makeshift; snap
Opposite Meaning: planned
imprudent (adjective) /ɪmˈprud nt/
Definition: Lacking careful consideration or wisdom.
Example Sentence: "It was imprudent of him to invest his life savings in such a risky venture."
Synonyms: careless; foolish; hasty; heedless; impulsive; incautious
Opposite Meaning: prudent
impudence (noun) /ˈɪm pyə dəns/
Definition: A lack of respect, audacity, or insolence towards others.
Example Sentence: "His impudence knew no bounds as he brazenly interrupted the speaker mid-sentence."
Synonyms: audacity; brass; cheek; disrespect; effrontery; gall
Opposite Meaning: respect
impudent (adjective) /ˈɪmpjʊd(ə)nt/
Definition: Displaying a lack of respect, courtesy, or proper manners, often in a bold or shameless manner.
Example Sentence: "The student's impudent behavior in class resulted in a detention from the teacher."
Synonyms: audacious; brash; brazen; cheeky; discourteous; disrespectful
Opposite Meaning: polite
impugn (verb) /ɪmˈpjuːn/
Definition: To challenge or attack the integrity, credibility or reputation of something or someone.
Example Sentence: "The defendant's lawyer attempted to impugn the witness's testimony."
Synonyms: assail; attack; challenge; condemn; contest; contradict
Opposite Meaning: trust
impulse (noun) /ˈɪm pʌls/
Definition: A sudden and powerful urge or instinctive drive that compels a person to act without prior thought or deliberation.
Example Sentence: "He couldn't control his impulse to burst into laughter during the serious meeting."
Synonyms: compulsion; desire; drive; impetus; inclination; instinct
Opposite Meaning: restraint
impulsive (adjective) /ɪmˈpʌlsɪv/
Definition: Having the tendency to act or make decisions quickly without thinking them through.
Example Sentence: "She couldn't resist the impulsive urge to buy the designer handbag."
Synonyms: capricious; compulsive; hasty; heedless; impetuous; impromptu
Opposite Meaning: deliberate
impunity (noun) /ɪmˈpjuːnɪti/
Definition: Exemption from punishment or freedom from harm, or retribution.
Example Sentence: "In exchange for his testimony, the accomplice received impunity from prosecution."
Synonyms: absolution; defense; dispensation; immunity; license; protection
Opposite Meaning: accountability
imputation (noun) /ˌɪm pyʊˈteɪ ʃən/
Definition: The act of attributing or assigning a particular action, quality, or responsibility to someone or something.
Example Sentence: "He challenged the imputation of incompetence and provided evidence of his achievements."
Synonyms: accusation; allegation; ascription; aspersion; assignment; attribution
Opposite Meaning: exoneration
impute (verb) /ɪmˈpjuːt/
Definition: To attribute a particular action, quality, or responsibility to someone or something.
Example Sentence: "It's easy to impute blame, but harder to take responsibility."
Synonyms: accredit; accuse; allocate; ascribe; assign; associate
Opposite Meaning: exonerate
