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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.

importune

/ˌɪm.pɔɹˈtun/ /ˌɪm.pɔːˈtjuːn/

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.

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