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abnegation

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˌæb.nɪˈɡeɪ.ʃən/

KK: /æbˈnɪɡeɪʃən/

noun
Definition

The act of giving up or rejecting something, especially one's own desires or needs, often for a greater cause or purpose.


Example

Her abnegation of personal desires for the sake of her family was admirable.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever thought about the idea of abnegation?
Sloth B
Yeah, it’s interesting how some people choose self-denial for their goals.
Sloth A
I think it takes a lot of strength to practice abnegation like that.
Sloth B
Definitely! It can lead to greater rewards in the long run.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
selflessness
renunciation
sacrifice
Antonyms
selfishness
indulgence
gratification
Root Explanation

Abnegation → It is formed from "ab-" (meaning away) and "negare" (meaning to deny). The word describes the act of denying oneself or rejecting something, particularly in terms of self-denial or renunciation.

Memory Tip

Think of 'denying' ('negare') something 'away' ('ab-') — that's why abnegation means to deny oneself or reject something.

Visually Confused Words
negation
autonegation
trabeation
renegation
panelation
denegation
balneation
annexation
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