The English word "negate" (pronounced /nɪˈɡeɪt/) is a verb with a few distinct but related meanings, primarily focusing on denial, invalidation, or causing something to be ineffective.
What does "Negate" mean?
Here are the main meanings of "negate":
-
To make ineffective or neutralize; to nullify.
- This is about making something lose its force, value, or effect. It's like canceling something out.
- Example: "The heavy rain negated the positive effects of the sunshine on the crops." (The rain canceled out or made ineffective the sunshine's benefits).
- Example: "His rude comment completely negated the good impression he had made earlier." (The rude comment nullified the positive impression).
-
To deny the existence, truth, or validity of something.
- This meaning is about stating that something is not true, does not exist, or is not valid. It's a direct contradiction or refusal to accept.
- Example: "The new evidence negated the defendant's alibi." (The new evidence proved the alibi was not true/valid).
- Example: "She repeatedly negated the accusations against her." (She denied that the accusations were true).
-
To be in contradiction with; to be contrary to.
- This means that one thing opposes or stands in opposition to another, making it untrue or impossible.
- Example: "His actions often negate his words." (His actions are contrary to, or contradict, what he says).
- Example: "The existence of evil doesn't necessarily negate the concept of a benevolent God." (It doesn't necessarily contradict or make impossible the idea of a good God).
How to Use "Negate" in a Sentence:
"Negate" is a transitive verb, meaning it usually takes a direct object (the thing being negated).
Structure: Subject + negate(s) + Object
Common Contexts:
- Effects/Results: Used when one factor cancels out or undoes the positive or desired effect of another.
- "All his hard work was negated by one careless mistake."
- "The benefits of the new policy were negated by its unforeseen negative consequences."
- Claims/Statements/Evidence: Used when new information or an argument proves something else to be false or invalid.
- "The forensic report negated the suspect's claim of innocence."
- "His latest research effectively negates previous theories on the subject."
- Beliefs/Concepts: Used when one idea or fact stands in opposition to another.
- "For some, scientific discovery can negate religious faith."
- "Does suffering negate hope?"
- Behavior/Words: Used when actions or later statements contradict earlier ones.
- "Her kind words were immediately negated by her harsh tone."
Examples in sentences:
-
To nullify/make ineffective:
- "The budget cuts will negate any chances of expanding the program."
- "His initial success was negated by a series of failures later in his career."
-
To deny/invalidate:
- "The witness's testimony appeared to negate the prosecutor's argument."
- "In philosophy, to negate an assertion is to declare it false."
-
To contradict/be contrary to:
- "Their actions negate the very principles they claim to uphold."
- "This new finding doesn't negate the importance of the original discovery, but rather refines it."
In essence, "negate" is a formal and strong word used to express the act of undoing, disproving, or contradicting something.
0 件のコメント:
コメントを投稿