Wrongful
ˈrɔːŋfəl
Definitions
Characterized by injustice, illegality, or impropriety; not morally right.
ˈrɔːŋfəl
Not in accordance with what is just, good, or lawful
The jury found the defendant guilty of wrongful imprisonment.
💡 Simply: Imagine you were unfairly blamed for something you didn't do. If the accusation was *wrongful*, it means it wasn't fair or right.
👶 For kids: If something is *wrongful*, it means it's not fair or not the right thing to do.
More Examples
The company faced a lawsuit for wrongful dismissal of an employee.
The judge declared the action was wrongful.
How It's Used
"The company was accused of wrongful termination."
"He believed the government's actions were wrongful."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
wrongful death
A death caused by the negligence or wrongdoing of another person or entity.
"The family filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the manufacturer."
wrongful act
An action that is illegal or morally wrong.
"The company was found liable for the wrongful act."
From Middle English "wrongful", combining "wrong" (injustice, error) and "-ful" (full of).
The word "wrongful" has been used since the Middle Ages, initially to describe actions considered unjust or contrary to law or morality. Its usage in legal contexts has grown over time.
Memory tip
Think of a wrong act being 'full' (ful) of wrongs.