impudence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "impudence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe behavior that is disrespectful or bold, often in a way that is considered rude or shameless. Example: "His impudence in speaking to the manager was shocking to everyone in the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Before being cut off by a prison official, Tolokonnikova said: "I hope they don't have the impudence to jail him – because, after all, he is even more of a media figure among the people than the members of Pussy Riot, at least in Russia.

The Guardian - Music

What Eliot considered "the waste land" of modern life the deracination, impudence and profane materialism was mother's milk to Groucho.Read more.

The Economist

The journalists welcomed this, but then had the impudence to demand the lifting of a host of other strictures on press freedom.Such internal mutterings, along with pressure from the West, have clearly put the region's rulers on the defensive.

The Economist

Two similar expeditions followed.Through encroachment, diplomacy and impudence, Muraviev made an astounding landgrab.

The Economist

Now that the rewards are smaller and the appetites and impudence of bureaucrats greater, large Russian firms are reducing the domestic sector of their business to a minimum, while smaller ones are looking to sell up.

The Economist

However, on the television show, the minister mentor showed only the mildest signs of irritation at the youngsters' impudence, as he patiently rebutted their accusations and explained "why we do what we do".

The Economist

Dozens of speakers lashed out at the government, but also listened politely as several Baathist intellectuals defended their party's record.Such impudence was intended as a test, so it was no surprise to either Mr Seif or to five of his more vocal guests when the secret police rounded them up over the next week.

The Economist

TO IGNORE one unanimous United Nations Security Council resolution may be considered impudence; to defy a second looks like policy.

The Economist

He was disliked for his "impudence," "presumption," "temerity," and "sacrilege".

Encyclopedia Britannica

While still a young man, Essex succeeded his stepfather, Robert Dudley, earl of Leicester (died 1588), as the aging queen's favourite; for years she put up with his rashness and impudence, but their relationship finally ended in tragedy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Count slaps Cherubino for his impudence, and the boy flees into the pavilion.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "impudence" when you want to convey a sense of disrespectful and brazen behavior, particularly when someone defies expectations of politeness or deference.

Common error

Don't use "impudence" simply to describe ordinary rudeness. "Impudence" implies a more deliberate and defiant disregard for authority or social norms, not just a lack of manners.

Linguistic Context

Impudence functions primarily as a noun, denoting the quality of being impudent. Ludwig AI confirms this, showcasing examples where it describes a state of disrespect or a specific instance of disrespectful behavior. It often qualifies actions or attitudes, highlighting a defiance of expected norms.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Encyclopedias

17%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Impudence" signifies disrespectful and bold behavior, often seen as rude or shameless. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media, to describe instances of defiance against expected norms of politeness or authority. While similar to words like "insolence" and "impertinence", "impudence" carries a specific nuance of deliberate disregard for social conventions. When using "impudence", ensure that the context genuinely reflects a defiant lack of respect, rather than mere rudeness, and consider its somewhat formal register in choosing appropriate settings. The frequency of "impudence" across various authoritative sources underscores its relevance in describing and analyzing human behavior.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

insolence

Shares the meaning of disrespectful behavior but often implies a more arrogant attitude.

impertinence

Similar to impudence, but may suggest a less extreme form of disrespect, often relating to inappropriate remarks.

cheekiness

Suggests a playful or humorous lack of respect, milder than impudence.

audacity

Emphasizes boldness and daring, sometimes with a negative connotation of excessive confidence.

effrontery

Implies shameless boldness and a disregard for social conventions.

temerity

Suggests recklessness and disregard for potential consequences in addition to disrespect.

brass

Informal term for impudence, suggesting excessive boldness or nerve.

nerve

Similar to brass, emphasizing boldness and audacity, often in a surprising or irritating way.

gall

Similar to impudence but indicates a greater degree of annoyance or outrage.

presumption

Suggests taking liberties or acting without proper authority or permission, verging on impudence.

FAQs

How can I use "impudence" in a sentence?

"Impudence" is used to describe behavior or language that is disrespectful and often considered rude. For example: "The student's "impudence" towards the teacher resulted in detention."

What words are similar to "impudence"?

Alternatives to "impudence" include "insolence", "impertinence", "cheekiness", and "audacity". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "impudence" a formal or informal word?

"Impudence" is considered a relatively formal word, suitable for academic writing, news reports, and professional communication. More informal synonyms include "cheek" or "nerve".

What's the difference between "impudence" and "insolence"?

While both words describe disrespectful behavior, "insolence" often implies a more arrogant and contemptuous attitude, whereas "impudence" can suggest a bolder, more defiant disregard for social conventions. However, they can often be used interchangeably.