gravamen

[gruh-vey-muh n]

gravamen Definition

• 1. the essential part of a grievance or complaint
• 2. the most serious part of an accusation

Using gravamen: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "gravamen" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The gravamen of the lawsuit is the breach of contract.

• Example

  The gravamen of the accusation is the embezzlement of funds.

• Example

  The gravamen of the complaint is the violation of human rights.

gravamen Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for gravamen

• core
• essence
• gist
• kernel
• nub

Phrases with gravamen

• gravamen of proof

  the burden of proving a disputed fact or issue in a legal case

  Example

  The plaintiff has the gravamen of proof to establish the defendant's liability.

• gravamen of taxation

  the main subject or object of a tax law

  Example

  The gravamen of taxation is to raise revenue for the government.

• gravamen of the offense

  the most serious or important part of a criminal charge

  Example

  The gravamen of the offense is the intent to cause harm.

Origins of gravamen

from Latin 'gravare', meaning 'to burden'

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Summary: gravamen in Brief

'Gravamen' [gruh-vey-muh n] refers to the essential or most serious part of a grievance, complaint, or accusation. It is often used in legal contexts, such as 'The gravamen of the lawsuit is the breach of contract.' 'Gravamen' can also appear in phrases like 'gravamen of proof,' referring to the burden of proving a disputed fact, and 'gravamen of taxation,' denoting the main subject of a tax law.