A deplorable condition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "A deplorable condition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or state that is extremely bad or unacceptable. Example: "The community was living in a deplorable condition, with inadequate access to clean water and sanitation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Elizabeth was described as being in a "deplorable condition"; her face and hands were black with dirt, she wore a shift, a petticoat, and a bedgown.

Wikipedia

She disappeared on 1 January 1753, before returning almost a month later to her mother's home in Aldermanbury in the City of London, emaciated and in a "deplorable condition".

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Evidently, FFB and BAL procedures should not be performed in patients in a deplorable clinical condition.

BMC Pulmonary Medicine

The recent article about the deplorable condition of our high school pools was an eye-opener for most of us who don't still have kids in education.

Los Angeles Times

Tells about the deplorable condition of the dogs Mr. Davis saw when he took a walk.

The New Yorker

The lack of a united front among Hispanics to pressure the industry is the main reason this deplorable condition exists.

The New York Times

They are deplorable condition.

The New Yorker

"Some of them were in deplorable condition.

The New York Times

"It was in deplorable condition," said Gary Nave, who now owns the property with his sister, Patricia Nave.

The New York Times

About 25 years ago I had it transferred to VHS, which is now in deplorable condition.

The New York Times

And yet what has brought about the deplorable condition of the American justice system?

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a deplorable condition", ensure the context clearly demonstrates the severity and unacceptability of the situation you're describing. Provide specific details to illustrate the extent of the problem.

Common error

Avoid using "a deplorable condition" to describe minor inconveniences or slightly negative situations. This phrase is best reserved for circumstances that are genuinely dire or shocking to maintain its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a deplorable condition" functions as a descriptive noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object complement to depict a situation characterized by unacceptability and often moral reprehensibility. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a deplorable condition" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase that effectively conveys a sense of severe disapproval and unacceptability. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. Predominantly found in News & Media and Wiki contexts, the phrase functions as a descriptive noun phrase, aimed at highlighting the severity of a situation. While the phrase carries a neutral to formal register, its strong implications demand judicious use, reserving it for contexts where the situation is genuinely dire. Alternatives such as "a dire state" or "an appalling situation" can be used to express similar sentiments with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an unacceptable state

Stresses the unsuitability and impropriety of the current condition.

an appalling situation

Highlights the shock and disgust associated with the circumstances.

a dire state

Focuses on the urgency and negativity of the situation, emphasizing potential danger.

a miserable situation

Highlights the unhappiness and discomfort caused by the circumstances.

a disgraceful situation

Focuses on the shame and dishonor associated with the circumstances.

a wretched state

Emphasizes the misery and suffering involved.

a sorry state of affairs

Highlights the disappointment and poor management involved.

a lamentable plight

Focuses on the sorrow and regret the condition evokes.

a calamitous condition

Emphasizes the disastrous and catastrophic nature of the situation.

a regrettable circumstance

Emphasizes the feeling of sorrow and disappointment about the situation.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a deplorable condition" in a sentence?

To effectively use "a deplorable condition", provide specific details that highlight the severity and unacceptability of the situation. For instance, "The refugees were living in "a deplorable condition", lacking access to basic necessities like food and clean water."

What phrases can I use instead of "a deplorable condition"?

Alternatives include "a dire state", "an appalling situation", or "an unacceptable state", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "deplorable condition" or "bad condition"?

"Deplorable condition" implies a more severe and unacceptable situation than "bad condition". Use "deplorable" when the circumstances are shockingly poor or inhumane.

What makes a situation qualify as "a deplorable condition"?

A situation qualifies as ""a deplorable condition"" when it involves severe suffering, neglect, or a violation of basic human rights or standards of decency. It suggests a state that demands immediate attention and remedy.