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shun

verb

/ʃraʊd/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of shun

To deliberately avoid, ignore, or keep away from someone or something, often due to a strong aversion, disapproval, or a desire to distance oneself.
"Some communities shun outsiders to protect their unique way of life."

Detailed meaning of shun

When individuals shun, they intentionally refuse to engage, associate, or interact with the subject in question. This can apply to people, places, behaviors, or ideas that are considered undesirable, socially unacceptable, or harmful. Shunning can manifest as social exclusion, refusal to communicate, or avoidance, and it often signifies a conscious decision to steer clear of someone or something perceived as detrimental, offensive, or incompatible with one's values or preferences. "Shun" underscores the notion of a deliberate and often persistent avoidance or rejection, emphasizing the strong negative sentiment or judgment associated with the act.

Example sentences containing shun

1. People often shun what they don't understand.
2. If you shun responsibility, it may lead to failure.
3. Many animals shun human contact and keep their distance.
4. To grow spiritually, some believers shun material possessions.
5. You shouldn't shun new experiences; they can be enlightening.
6. If you shun technology, you may find modern life more challenging.

History and etymology of shun

The verb 'shun' has its origins in Middle English, where it was spelled as 'shunen.' Its roots can be traced back to the Old English word 'scunian' or 'sceonian,' which meant 'to avoid' or 'to abhor.' In its early usage, 'shun' referred to the deliberate act of avoiding or keeping away from someone or something, often due to a strong aversion, disapproval, or a desire to distance oneself. It conveys the idea of actively steering clear of a particular person or situation. As the term transitioned into modern English, it retained this fundamental meaning, describing the action of deliberately avoiding or ignoring someone or something, typically due to a strong feeling of dislike, aversion, or a desire to maintain distance. The etymology of 'shun' underscores the concept of avoidance, emphasizing the deliberate and often conscious choice to stay away from something considered undesirable or objectionable.

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Further usage examples of shun

1. She decided to shun the traditional path and forge her own way.
2. They shun processed foods in favor of organic and natural products.
3. Philosophers sometimes shun the complex questions to focus on the fundamental ones.
4. Do you shun social media, or do you find it useful?
5. Many artists shun commercial success to preserve their creative integrity.
6. He decided to shun his former friends after they betrayed his trust.
7. If we shun collaboration, we may miss out on valuable insights.
8. Some investors shun high-risk opportunities for the sake of stability.
9. She doesn't shun confrontation but faces it head-on.
10. If you shun your fears, they may continue to control you.
11. To achieve his goal, he decided to shun distractions and focus on his studies.
12. Many poets shun conventional structures to explore free verse.
13. Do you think society should shun those who don't adhere to its norms?
14. They shun unfamiliar faces.
15. We shun negativity in our conversations.
16. They shun parties and prefer quiet evenings at home.
17. We shun gossip and focus on meaningful discussions.
18. Many cultures shun public displays of affection.
19. They shun anyone who doesn't share their beliefs.
20. The school encourages students to shun bullying.
21. They shun traditional gender roles and promote equality.
22. They shun conformity and embrace individuality.
23. They shun toxic relationships and surround themselves with positive influences.