Vocabulary Spotlight
Blasphemy
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: The act or offense of speaking sacrilegiously about sacred things; profane talk.
“His comments were considered blasphemy by the religious community.”
Pronunciation
[ˈblæs fə mi]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Sacrilege
Impiety
Irreverence
Desecration
Antonyms
Respect
Piety
Veneration
Devotion
Related Words
Blasphemous (adjective)
Profane (adjective)
Word Origin
The word “blasphemy” originates from the Greek word “blasphēmia,” meaning “slander” or “abusive speech.” It was adopted into Latin as “blasphemia” before entering Middle English. Historically, blasphemy referred to speech or actions considered disrespectful toward the divine or sacred beliefs, often regarded as a severe offense.
Word Family
Noun: Blasphemer – A person who speaks sacrilegiously.
Adjective: Blasphemous – Showing disrespect or lack of reverence.
Verb: Blaspheme – To speak irreverently about sacred things.
Mnemonics
Remember “Blast-fame” — blasphemy is like “blasting” someone’s faith or reputation, which is offensive to their beliefs.
This mnemonic links “blast” with blasphemy, where irreverent speech “blasts” what is held sacred.
Industry-specific Usage
Law
In legal contexts, blasphemy laws are enacted in some regions to protect religious sentiments by prohibiting disrespectful speech or actions toward sacred beliefs or figures.
Theology
In theology, blasphemy is discussed as a serious moral offense, sometimes seen as a sin against the divine, with varied interpretations across religions.
Literature
In literature, blasphemy is often portrayed in narratives challenging societal norms or critiquing dogmatic beliefs, providing insight into cultural or ideological conflicts.
In Context
In social contexts, blasphemy is often a point of contention, especially in debates on free speech versus respect for religious beliefs. Blasphemy laws, where they exist, reflect the cultural or religious values of a society, though they are increasingly scrutinized in modern discussions of human rights.
In academia, the concept of blasphemy is studied within religious studies, philosophy, and legal studies, particularly in relation to freedom of expression and cultural diversity.
In everyday life, the sensitivity toward blasphemous expressions varies widely depending on cultural and personal beliefs, often influencing public discourse, art, and media content.