Importune - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Importune means to persistently ask or demand something from someone, often in an annoying or troublesome way. It implies repeated requests that may become burdensome or unwelcome.
Definition:
To persistently ask or demand something in an annoying or troublesome way.
Synonyms:
pester, badger, harass, beseech
Part of Speech:
verb
Antonyms:
ignore, refuse
Common Collocations:
importune for help, importune with requests, importune repeatedly
Derivatives:
importuner, importunate, importunity
Usage Tips:
Use "importune" when describing persistent and bothersome requests; avoid for polite or occasional asking.
Common Phrases:
importune for favors, importune the authorities, importune relentlessly
Etymology:
From Latin "importunus" (inconvenient), via Old French "importuner" (to annoy).
Examples:
- 1. She would often importune her boss for a raise.
- 2. The beggar continued to importune passersby for money.
- 3. He didn’t want to importune his friend with constant requests.
- 4. Reporters importuned the celebrity for an exclusive interview.