a serious transgression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a serious transgression" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant violation of rules, laws, or ethical standards. Example: "The committee decided to take action against the member for a serious transgression of the organization's code of conduct."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

He ruled that Ashkenazi was right to dissuade Aron from testifying in criminal court, "as this is a serious transgression".

The New Yorker

The church still considers "homosexual relations" a serious transgression that can lead to disciplinary action, along with offenses like heterosexual sex outside marriage, child abuse, abortion and rape.

The New York Times

In other circumstances, this would be condemned as a serious transgression of the country's deeply conservative interpretation of Islam.

BBC

* When an LDS bishop learns of a serious transgression, usually by a confession, he counsels with the member.

Huffington Post

The new policy also re-categorizes "same gender marriage" as a form of "apostasy," in contrast to same gender cohabitation, which is categorized as a "serious transgression".

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

But unlike Jennifer, most of the women I know are in serious relationships, and so cheating -- be it a one-night stand or a more serious transgression -- can be dangerous stuff.

The New York Times - Style

According to the Reporter, a religious newspaper, solicitation in the confessional is considered to be a very serious transgression under the Catholic Church. .

Huffington Post

When he started openly mocking the civil service and expressing political opinions a serious transgression for an employee of the state he was invited to retire at age 42, in 1953.

The Economist

16 In the People's Republic of China, the disruptive behaviors of individuals with schizophrenia are considered a serious cultural transgression, and the stigma may extend to the families as well as the affected individual.

ClinicoEconomics and Outcomes Research

Adopting different headgear was hardly Mr. Mullet's most serious transgression in the years leading up to last fall's violence.

The New York Times

Men and women could be forced to endure "rough music" for minor social infractions like gossiping or for more serious transgression like spousal abuse.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and adjust the tone accordingly; "a serious transgression" can be used in both formal and informal settings, but the implications should be carefully considered.

Common error

While grammatically correct, avoid using "a serious transgression" in very casual or informal settings where simpler language might be more appropriate. Terms like "big mistake" or "major slip-up" may be better suited for everyday conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a serious transgression" functions as a noun phrase. It typically serves as the object of a verb or preposition, denoting an act that violates established rules, laws, or ethical standards. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a serious transgression" is a noun phrase used to describe a significant violation of rules, laws, or ethical standards. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While generally neutral to formal in register, it appears most frequently in news and media contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure the context clearly defines the violated standards to emphasize the severity of the action. Consider alternatives like "a grave offense" or "a major violation" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a grave offense

Emphasizes the weighty moral implications of the wrongdoing.

a major violation

Highlights the breach of rules or regulations.

a severe infraction

Conveys a sense of strict adherence to rules being broken.

a critical breach

Focuses on the importance of the rule that was broken.

a significant wrongdoing

Broadly refers to an act that is morally or legally wrong and important.

a substantial misdeed

Indicates an action of notable negative consequence.

a considerable lapse

Refers to a temporary failure in judgment or behavior that carries weight.

an egregious act

Stresses the shocking and outrageous nature of the action.

a flagrant violation

Highlights the blatant and deliberate nature of the breach.

a deplorable offense

Emphasizes the regrettable and reprehensible nature of the action.

FAQs

How can I use "a serious transgression" in a sentence?

You can use "a serious transgression" to describe a significant violation of rules or ethical standards. For example: "Committing perjury is considered "a serious transgression" in a court of law."

What are some alternatives to using "a serious transgression"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a grave offense", "a major violation", or "a severe infraction".

Is "a serious transgression" formal or informal?

"A serious transgression" is generally considered a formal phrase, suitable for professional, news, or academic contexts. In casual conversation, simpler alternatives may be more appropriate.

What makes a transgression "serious"?

A transgression is considered "serious" when it involves significant ethical, legal, or moral implications, leading to substantial consequences for those involved.