C1verbformal2K

Violate

UK /["/ˈvaɪəleɪt/","/ˈvaɪəleɪts/","/ˈvaɪəleɪtɪd/","/ˈvaɪəleɪtɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈvaɪəleɪt/","/ˈvaɪəleɪts/","/ˈvaɪəleɪtɪd/","/ˈvaɪəleɪtɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to go against or refuse to obey a law, an agreement, etc.

In simple words: To break a law or rule.

Examples

to violate international law
They have flagrantly violated the treaty.
The directive violates fundamental human rights.
She accused the press photographers of violating her privacy.
The peace of the island community had been brutally violated.
The peace of this island community has been repeatedly violated.
Their voices sounded shrill and incongruous, violating the silence.
to violate a grave
He had drugged her and then violated her.

Usage notes

Use 'violate' in formal situations, such as legal or academic contexts. Avoid in casual conversations, where 'break' might be more appropriate.

Grammar pattern

violate + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'violin' — imagine a violin breaking a music rule.

Collocations

blatantly
flagrantly
clearly
blatantly
flagrantly
clearly
blatantly
flagrantly
clearly

Synonyms

flout

Antonyms

obey
follow
comply

Common mistakes

Confused with 'infringe' — may use them interchangeably.
Incorrectly use 'violate' without an object, such as saying 'he violates.'
Use 'violate' in non-formal settings where simpler words suffice.