Contravenes

/ˌkɒntrəˈviːnz/ verb

Definition

Third-person singular present tense: violates or acts contrary to a law, rule, or agreement; goes against established norms.

Etymology

From Latin contravenire. The present tense third-person form (he/she/it contravenes) follows standard English conjugation patterns.

Kelly Says

You'll see this word constantly in legal documents: 'The defendant contravenes the terms of the contract.' It's the precise way lawyers say someone broke the rules—it sounds more formal and serious than casual language.

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