C1noun 2K

Violation

UK /["/ˌvaɪəˈleɪʃn/"]/ US /["/ˌvaɪəˈleɪʃn/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

the act of going against or refusing to obey a law, an agreement, etc.

Listen to definition

In simple words: An action that breaks a rule or law.

Examples

• They were in open violation of the treaty.
• gross violations of human rights
• This was a violation of a sacred space.

Usage notes

Use 'violation' in formal contexts, such as legal or academic discussions. Avoid in casual conversation or when discussing minor mistakes.

Grammar pattern

violation + of + rule/law

Memory hint

Think of 'violate' as 'violin' — imagine a violin playing out of tune breaks the musical rules.

Collocations

• traffic violation
• human rights violation
• violation of trust
• violation of laws
• violation of rules

Synonyms

• desecration
• rape (1)

Antonyms

• compliance
• adherence

Common mistakes

• Confusing with 'breach' which has similar meanings but different usages.
• Using 'violation' when 'mistake' would be more appropriate.
• Incorrectly using 'violation' as a verb instead of a noun.