Definition
To urge or beg someone persistently or annoyingly, especially for something that they may not want to give or do.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Verb
Synonyms
Pester, harass, badger, hound, beseech, implore, beg, plead, solicit.
Antonyms
Aid, assist, comfort, help, support.
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | None |
| Verb | importune, importuned, importunes, importuning |
| Adjective | None |
| Adverb | None |
Example Sentences
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The persistent salesman importuned the customer with phone calls, emails, and even surprise visits, trying to convince him to buy the product.
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The desperate mother importuned the school principal, pleading for her child’s admission, emphasizing their unique circumstances and the positive impact it would have on their future.
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The homeless man importuned passersby on the street, holding out his empty cup and asking for spare change, hoping for some generosity from strangers.
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The ambitious employee importuned his boss for a promotion, presenting a detailed plan of his accomplishments and outlining how he would contribute to the company’s growth.
Usage
The verb “importune” is often used to describe the act of persistently or annoyingly requesting something from someone. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is generally considered a more formal word. It is often used with the preposition “for” to indicate what is being requested.
The word “importune” comes from the Latin word “importunus,” meaning “unfriendly” or “unaccommodating.” The suffix “-une” is derived from the Latin “-unus,” which means “full of” or “having the qualities of.” The prefix “im-” in “importune” means “not,” “into,” or “upon,” and it is often used to intensify the meaning of the root word.
There are several variations of the word “importune,” including “importunacy,” which means the act of importuning or being importuned, and “importunate,” which means insistent or persistent in making a request. The noun form of “importune” is “importunity,” which refers to a persistent request or demand.
In conclusion, “importune” is a verb used to describe the act of urging or begging someone persistently or annoyingly, especially for something they may not want to give or do. Its variations include “importunacy,” “importunate,” and “importunity,” and it is often used with the preposition “for.” The word’s prefix, suffix, and root provide insight into its meaning and usage.