Morally dubious

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Morally dubious" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe actions, decisions, or situations that raise ethical questions or concerns about their morality. Example: "The company's decision to cut costs by outsourcing labor to countries with lower wages is considered morally dubious by many critics."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Morally dubious behaviour is not just the company's unique selling point, but emerges as something of a theme in its business practices.

The Guardian - Opinion

Others were legal but morally dubious.

The Economist

That is a morally dubious transaction.

The Economist

Such morally dubious practices harm the economy.

The New York Times

Then, as now, banking was a morally dubious activity.

Independent

I find that very difficult, and somewhat morally dubious.

Independent

This is a practice with its own morally dubious thrill.

The New Yorker

France has a similar, morally dubious, story to tell.

The Guardian

Including these, especially Michigan's, is politically and morally dubious.

The New Yorker

Then again, criminal kingpins are often convicted on the testimony of morally dubious underlings.

The New Yorker

Michael Jackson's final years were marked by hubris, morally dubious behaviour and exhaustion.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "morally dubious", ensure the context provides enough information for the reader to understand why the action or situation is being questioned ethically. Avoid using it as a vague or unsubstantiated accusation.

Common error

Avoid using "morally dubious" in contexts where stronger, more specific terms like "unethical", "corrupt", or "exploitative" would be more accurate. Overusing "morally dubious" can dilute the impact of your writing and obscure the precise nature of the wrongdoing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "morally dubious" primarily functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It serves to describe actions, behaviors, or situations that are ethically questionable or of uncertain moral standing, as demonstrated by Ludwig AI's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "morally dubious" is a common and useful way to describe something that raises ethical questions or concerns. As Ludwig AI highlights, it functions as an adjective phrase and is often used in news and media to express doubt or criticism about the morality of a situation. While "ethically questionable" and "morally ambiguous" are close alternatives, "morally dubious" offers a specific nuance that emphasizes the questionable nature of the morality involved. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly explains why something is being described as ethically questionable and avoid overusing it in emotionally charged situations where more precise terms would be appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Ethically questionable

Focuses specifically on ethical principles rather than a broader sense of morality. It's a direct substitute with similar formality.

Morally reprehensible

Reinforces the concept of moral wrongness and emphasizes that it's deserving of criticism or condemnation.

Morally ambiguous

Suggests uncertainty or lack of clarity regarding the morality of a situation or action, implying a spectrum rather than clear wrongness.

Questionable morality

Highlights the uncertainty and debate surrounding the moral implications of a certain action or decision.

Of questionable character

Shifts the focus from the act to the person's inherent nature or reputation.

Ethically compromised

Emphasizes a situation where ethical standards have been violated or weakened.

Of dubious integrity

Highlights a lack of honesty and strong moral principles, questioning the person's reliability and trustworthiness.

Reprehensible

Indicates strong disapproval and condemnation, suggesting the action is deserving of criticism.

Despicable

Conveys intense dislike and contempt, indicating that the action is vile and contemptible.

Unconscionable

Suggests that the action is so unfair or wrong that it shocks the conscience.

FAQs

What does "morally dubious" mean?

The phrase "morally dubious" describes something that is questionable or doubtful from a moral perspective, suggesting it may not be entirely ethical or right.

How can I use "morally dubious" in a sentence?

You can use "morally dubious" to describe actions, decisions, or situations that raise ethical questions. For example: "The company's business practices were considered "morally dubious"."

What can I say instead of "morally dubious"?

You can use alternatives like "ethically questionable", "morally ambiguous", or "ethically compromised" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "morally dubious" and "unethical"?

"Morally dubious" suggests a degree of uncertainty or questionability, while "unethical" implies a clearer violation of established ethical principles or codes of conduct.