inquisition

• Nom désignant un interrogatoire sévère ou intensif, souvent contraire aux droits ou à la vie privée des personnes, ainsi que, historiquement, un tribunal ecclésiastique chargé de réprimer l'hérésie.

A noun referring to a severe or intensive interrogation, often one that violates the rights or privacy of individuals.

1. Severe interrogationC1formal

   A harsh or intensive questioning, often violating personal rights or privacy.

   Interrogatoire sévère

   • The journalist faced an inquisition from the authorities about her sources.
   • His parents gave him an inquisition about where he had been all night.
   • The suspect endured a lengthy inquisition by the police.

   Synonymescross-examinationgrillinginterrogationquestioningthird degree

2. Historical tribunalB2formal

   A former tribunal of the Roman Catholic Church established to suppress heresy, known for its severe methods.

   Inquisition (tribunal ecclésiastique)

   • The Spanish Inquisition was notorious for its harsh tactics.
   • Many scholars were persecuted during the Inquisition.
   • The Inquisition targeted those who challenged church doctrine.