Gravamen

Pronunciation: /ɡrəˈveɪmən/

Definitions of gravamen

noun the central point or essence of a matter

Example Sentences

A1 The gravamen of the issue is that the printer is out of ink.

A2 She couldn't understand the gravamen of the legal document without help.

B1 The gravamen of the complaint is the lack of communication between departments.

B2 The gravamen of the case lies in the conflicting testimonies of the witnesses.

C1 The gravamen of the argument is the fundamental difference in their beliefs.

C2 The gravamen of the lawsuit is the alleged breach of contract by the defendant.

Examples of gravamen in a Sentence

formal The gravamen of the lawsuit is the alleged breach of contract.

informal The main gravamen of the argument was about who should do the dishes.

slang I don't want to deal with the gravamen of this issue right now.

figurative The gravamen of her sadness was the loss of her beloved pet.

Grammatical Forms of gravamen

• plural: gravamens
• comparative: more gravamen
• superlative: most gravamen
• present tense: gravamen
• future tense: will gravamen
• perfect tense: has gravamened
• continuous tense: is gravamening
• singular: gravamen
• positive degree: gravamen
• infinitive: to gravamen
• gerund: gravamening
• participle: gravamened

Origin and Evolution of gravamen

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'gravamen' originated from Latin, where 'gravamen' means 'that which is burdensome or grievous.'

Evolution of the word: Over time, 'gravamen' has come to be used in English legal terminology to refer to the material part of a legal complaint, specifically the part that sets forth the cause of action or the grievance.