impunity

Definition

Exemption from punishment.

Etymology

From Middle French impunité, from Latin impunitas, from impunis (“without punishment”).

Example Sentences

• "Maternus, a private ſoldier, of a daring boldneſs above his ſtation,[…] plundered with impunity the rich and defenceleſs cities of Gaul and Spain."
• "I must not only punish but punish with impunity. A wrong is unredressed when retribution overtakes its redresser."
• "The remoteness of the prison made the authorities feel they could ignore us with impunity."

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