transgression - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
transgression Word Meanings
- an act that goes against a law or rule
- a violation or infringement of a boundary or limit
- a moral or ethical offense
transgression Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
transgression Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/trænsˈɡrɛʃ.ən/
US
/trænˈɡrɛʃ.ən/
transgression Word Etymology
(a) 'trans-' (across) + 'gress' (to step) + 'ion' (process); (b) Latin - 'transgressio' → Old French - 'transgression' → English; (c) Imagine stepping over a barrier that was meant to protect you—such as a fence around a garden. Each time you step over it, you commit a transgression against nature and its rules.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Transgression is a noun that refers to an act that goes against a law or rule, a boundary or limit, or a moral or ethical standard. It emphasizes crossing a line rather than merely breaking a rule in a technical sense. In formal writing you may discuss legal transgressions, social transgressions, or moral transgressions. The verb form is transgress, meaning to go beyond permitted boundaries. In everyday use, 'violation' or 'offense' can be more common, but transgression conveys a weightier, sometimes reflective or religious nuance. Contexts include law, religion, literature, and ethics debates where the idea of crossing a boundary carries consequence.
Usage Reminders
- Distinguish transgression from violation and offense
- Note its moral or formal nuance rather than a simple rule-breaking label
- Use collocations like transgress against the law or a boundary
- Prefer transgress in literary or religious contexts over everyday speech
- Remember its verb form: transgress (to transgress)
- Be mindful that 'transgression' often signals weightier consequences than a mere breach
Common Misconceptions
- Transgression equals crime only
- It must involve a legal violation
- It is a light offense
- You can use it interchangeably with violation
- It cannot apply to moral or religious contexts
Thinking Differences
Transgression carries a weightier, often moral or formal tone in English; learners should note its sharper, less everyday feel compared with violation or breach, and reserve it for explicit crossing of legal, ethical, or boundary lines.
Learning Tips
- Compare transgression with violation and breach to choose the right fit in context.
- Note its use in moral, religious, and literary contexts.
- Learn collocations: transgress against the law, transgress a boundary, moral transgression.
- Practice the verb form: transgress (to transgress).
- Read formal texts to see weighty usage.
- Avoid casual slang when using transgression.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'transgression'?
A.An act of wrongdoing or violation
B.An error in judgment
C.A state of happiness
D.A form of travel
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct usage of the word 'transgression'.
A.The athletes faced discipline for their transgression against the rules.
B.The scientist made a transgression in the lab by following the wrong procedure.
C.His transgression led to a promotion at work.
D.Her transgression was eating dessert before dinner.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is the most similar word to 'transgression'?
A.Promise
B.Celebration
C.Violation
D.Adventure
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'transgression'?
A.Mistake
B.Obedience
C.Failure
D.Conflict
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where a transgression occurred?
A.A student being rewarded for completing their homework.
B.A company facing legal action for breaking environmental laws.
C.An athlete achieving a personal best in their sport.
D.A family enjoying a picnic in the park.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
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