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

Wiki

News & Media

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

56 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

Use "a deplorable condition" when you want to express strong disapproval or condemnation of a situation, emphasizing its unacceptability and often implying a need for urgent action.

Common error

Avoid using "a deplorable condition" in informal settings. The phrase carries a weight of seriousness and disapproval that may be out of place in casual conversation. Simpler terms might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a deplorable condition" functions as a noun phrase with an adjectival modifier. It describes a state or situation characterized by being extremely bad or unacceptable. Ludwig highlights its use in describing states that evoke strong disapproval.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a deplorable condition" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to express strong disapproval of a state or situation. While not overly common, Ludwig identifies its presence in news, wiki, and science, making it appropriate for neutral to formal contexts. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is correct. When writing, reserve this phrase for situations that warrant explicit condemnation and consider alternatives for more casual settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a woeful condition

Emphasizes sorrow or regret about the state, slightly more emotive than "deplorable".

a miserable condition

Highlights the unhappiness and suffering associated with the state.

a pitiful condition

Focuses on the feeling of pity or compassion that the state evokes.

a shameful condition

Implies that the state is a cause of shame or disgrace.

a regrettable condition

Suggests the state is something to be sorry about, with a sense of mild disappointment.

a dreadful condition

Highlights the fear and horror associated with the state.

a dire condition

Emphasizes the urgency and severity of the state, suggesting imminent danger or disaster.

a distressing condition

Focuses on the anxiety and worry caused by the state.

a disgraceful condition

Similar to "shameful", but with a stronger emphasis on the loss of respect or honor.

an unacceptable state

Directly states that the state is not tolerable or satisfactory, lacking the emotional weight of "deplorable".

FAQs

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

"A deplorable condition" is used to describe something that is extremely bad or unacceptable. For example, "The refugees were living in "a deplorable condition", lacking access to basic necessities."

What are some alternatives to "a deplorable condition"?

Alternatives include "a woeful condition", "a miserable condition", or "an unacceptable state". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "deplorable condition" formal or informal?

"Deplorable condition" tends to be more formal. In informal settings, simpler terms like "terrible state" or "awful situation" might be more appropriate.

What makes "a deplorable condition" different from "a bad situation"?

"A deplorable condition" implies a stronger level of disapproval and often suggests that the situation is morally wrong or deserving of condemnation, while "a bad situation" is a more neutral descriptor.