THIRD DEGREE Meaning and
Definition
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The term "third degree" refers to a form of intensive questioning or interrogation, often characterized by its aggressive and relentless nature. It can be used in multiple contexts, such as police investigations, private interrogations, or even informal settings. The primary objective of the third degree is to extract information or obtain a confession from the subject, even through coercive means.
In the context of law enforcement, the third degree involves subjecting a suspect to psychological and physical stress in order to break their resistance. These tactics may include harsh and repetitive questioning, intimidation, threats, manipulation, isolation, sleep deprivation, or physical abuse. The intention behind the third degree is to create a high-pressure environment that may weaken the suspect's resolve, leading to disclosure of crucial information or an admission of guilt.
While the third degree can be effective in some instances, it is often criticized for being inhumane, violating a person's rights, and potentially leading to false confessions. Many legal systems have strict regulations prohibiting the use of such tactics in interrogations due to ethical concerns.
Beyond the realm of criminal investigations, the term "third degree" can also denote harsh or excessive questioning in various social or professional settings. It refers to an intense and exhaustive examination aimed at extracting information or clarifying details, potentially causing discomfort or distress to the individual being questioned.
Overall, the concept of the third degree encompasses aggressive and often unethical methods employed to obtain information, primarily within the realm of police investigations or other contexts where questioning tactics can be particularly intense.
Common Misspellings for THIRD DEGREE
- rhird degree
- fhird degree
- ghird degree
- yhird degree
- 6hird degree
- 5hird degree
- tgird degree
- tbird degree
- tnird degree
- tjird degree
- tuird degree
- tyird degree
- thurd degree
- thjrd degree
- thkrd degree
- thord degree
- th9rd degree
- th8rd degree
- thied degree
Etymology of THIRD DEGREE
The phrase "third degree" has its origins in the practice of Freemasonry, a fraternal organization that originated in the late 16th or early 17th century. In Freemasonry, there are three distinct degrees, or stages, of initiation: the Entered Apprentice (first degree), the Fellow Craft (second degree), and the Master Mason (third degree).
Over time, the term "third degree" began to be used metaphorically to describe a rigorous or intense questioning or interrogation process similar to what is experienced during the third degree initiation of Freemasonry. This metaphorical usage of the phrase emerged in the late 19th or early 20th century and has since become a common expression in English to describe a thorough and often aggressive questioning or cross-examination.
Idioms with the word THIRD DEGREE
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get the third degree
The idiom "get the third degree" means to be subjected to intense interrogation or questioning, often in a harsh or relentless manner. It implies being drilled with extensive and relentless questioning, typically in a situation where someone is trying to extract information or uncover the truth. It can also refer to enduring extensive and rigorous scrutiny or examination.
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the third degree
The idiom "the third degree" refers to a rigorous and intense questioning or interrogation technique used to extract information or confessions from someone. It often involves aggressive and persistent questioning that borders on harassment or intimidation.
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give (someone) the third degree
The idiomatic expression "give (someone) the third degree" refers to the act of questioning or interrogating someone intensely and persistently. It involves aggressive and relentless questioning in order to extract information, often making the person being questioned feel uncomfortable or pressured.
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*third degree
"Third degree" is an idiom that refers to intense, persistent questioning or interrogation in order to extract information or a confession from someone. It is often used to describe a harsh or grueling interrogation process.
Similar spelling words for THIRD DEGREE
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