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transgressive

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /trænˈɡrɛsɪv/

KK: /trænˈɡrɛsɪv/

adjective
Definition

Going beyond accepted limits or boundaries, especially in social behavior or norms.


Example

The artist's transgressive work challenged societal norms and provoked strong reactions.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you seen that new movie everyone's talking about?
Sloth B
Yeah, I watched it the other night; it was pretty transgressive for sure.
Sloth A
I heard it really pushes some boundaries.
Sloth B
Definitely! It's not for everyone, but it was a wild ride.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
deviant
unconventional
rebellious
Antonyms
conformist
acceptable
lawful
Root Explanation

Transgressive → It is formed from "trans-" (meaning across) and "gressus" (from "gradi", meaning to step or walk). The word describes the act of stepping across boundaries or limits, often in a moral or social context.

Memory Tip

Think of 'stepping across' boundaries — 'trans-' means across, and 'gressus' relates to stepping. This helps you remember that 'transgressive' refers to actions that go beyond accepted limits.

Visually Confused Words
intransgressible
untransgressed
reaggressive
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