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renounce

verb

/rɪˈnaʊns/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of renounce

To formally give up, reject, or disown something, typically a belief, right, or claim.
"The monk chose to renounce all worldly possessions and live a simple life."

Detailed meaning of renounce

When someone renounces something, they publicly declare their intention to no longer be associated with it or to give up any claim or connection to it. This can involve disavowing a particular political or religious belief, renouncing a particular inheritance or claim to property, or giving up a particular social or cultural affiliation. Renouncing can be a deliberate and intentional act, often taken in response to a change in personal circumstances, beliefs, or values. It can also be a legal or formal act, such as when someone renounces citizenship in one country in order to become a citizen of another. In some cases, renouncing can have significant personal or social consequences, and may be viewed as a radical or controversial act. However, it can also be seen as an act of personal liberation or empowerment, allowing individuals to free themselves from obligations or affiliations that no longer serve their best interests.

Example sentences containing renounce

1. She decided to renounce her citizenship and move to another country.
2. He will renounce his inheritance to pursue his own path in life.
3. They have made the difficult decision to renounce their religious beliefs.
4. The politician declared that he would renounce his candidacy for re-election.
5. She plans to renounce her membership in the organization due to its controversial practices.
6. They were forced to renounce their allegiance to the rebel group for their own safety.

History and etymology of renounce

The verb 'renounce' has its origins in Latin, specifically from the word 'renuntiare.' It is formed by combining 're,' indicating 'again' or 'back,' and 'nuntiare,' meaning 'to announce' or 'to declare.' In Latin, 'renuntiare' was used to describe the formal act of announcing or declaring something again, often in the sense of retracting a previous statement or commitment. As the term was adopted into English, it evolved to signify the action of formally giving up, rejecting, or disowning something, typically a belief, right, or claim. The etymology of 'renounce' underscores the concept of making a formal declaration to abandon or disavow something, emphasizing the deliberate and often solemn act of rejecting or relinquishing a previously held position or allegiance.

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Further usage examples of renounce

1. The artist decided to renounce fame and live a quiet life in solitude.
2. He chose to renounce his family name and adopt a new identity.
3. They made a public statement to renounce any association with the extremist group.
4. She had to renounce her title as the reigning champion due to an injury.
5. The actor announced that he would renounce his role in the controversial film.
6. They decided to renounce their claim to the disputed territory for the sake of peace.
7. He made the brave decision to renounce his past mistakes and start afresh.
8. The organization urged its members to renounce violence and seek peaceful solutions.
9. She chose to renounce her position in the company to pursue her true passion.
10. They faced backlash from their community when they decided to renounce their cultural traditions.
11. The billionaire philanthropist pledged to renounce half of their wealth for charitable causes.
12. He will renounce his membership in the exclusive club due to its discriminatory practices.
13. They decided to renounce their allegiance to the oppressive regime and join the resistance.
14. She made the difficult choice to renounce her friendship with someone who betrayed her trust.