impugn
/ɪmˈpjuːn/
Group 17Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (verb)
- To dispute the truth, validity, or honesty of a statement or motive; to call into question GRE
Example in Context
The defense attorney sought to impugn the credibility of the prosecution's star witness by highlighting inconsistencies in prior testimony.
Synonyms
challengequestionattack
Etymology
To fight against or challenge the validity of something.
- pugnare (Latin) — to fight
Memory Aid
🤼Sounds like “impugn”
A boxer with a sign that says, 'I IMPUGN your right to be wrong!'
Visual Association
⚔️Knights in a debate duel, clashing swords while arguing over who has the better argument.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “impugn” mean on the GRE?
impugn (verb) means “To dispute the truth, validity, or honesty of a statement or motive; to call into question”. The defense attorney sought to impugn the credibility of the prosecution's star witness by highlighting inconsistencies in prior testimony.
How to remember “impugn” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “impugn” sounds like “impugn”. A boxer with a sign that says, 'I IMPUGN your right to be wrong!'
What are synonyms for “impugn”?
Common synonyms: challenge, question, attack.