altogether unacceptable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "altogether unacceptable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express that something is completely or entirely not acceptable in a given context. Example: "The behavior displayed during the meeting was altogether unacceptable and must be addressed immediately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Contents of this sort were altogether unacceptable to the Tat Khalsa, which consequently rejected the Dasam Granth.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Benedict has since condemned Holocaust denial as "intolerable and altogether unacceptable," and the Vatican has called on the bishop to recant.

The New York Times

It is altogether unacceptable to Marty to regard philosophy of language as distinct from the science of language, as if they were two endeavors concerned with one and the same subject matter and yet differing in their methods (Marty 1908a: 4 f).

SEP

YouTube aside, the Supreme Court sent a very loud and troublesome and altogether unacceptable message: We're stuck in the 20th century, technological changes be damned.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Totally unacceptable.

The New York Times

"This is wholly unacceptable".

Independent

"This was completely unacceptable".

The New York Times

I know: completely unacceptable.

The New York Times

That's totally unacceptable.

BBC

That is totally unacceptable".

Independent

But completely unacceptable.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "altogether unacceptable" to express a strong and complete sense of disapproval, especially when emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the issue.

Common error

Avoid using "altogether unacceptable" in casual conversation. Opt for simpler, more direct phrases like "completely unacceptable" or "totally out of line" for better tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "altogether unacceptable" functions as an intensifier followed by an adjective, strongly emphasizing the degree to which something is not acceptable. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s a grammatically correct and usable expression. The examples highlight its use in contexts where a firm stance or strong disapproval is being conveyed.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "altogether unacceptable" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express a strong sense of disapproval or rejection. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While it's not as common as simpler alternatives like "completely unacceptable", it is suitable for formal and professional contexts, especially in news, encyclopedias, and scientific writing. Its purpose is to convey a firm stance against something deemed intolerable. When choosing to use this phrase, ensure it aligns with the tone and context to effectively communicate your disapproval.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completely unacceptable

Emphasizes the totality of unacceptability, similar to the original phrase.

totally unacceptable

Indicates an absolute lack of acceptability.

wholly unacceptable

Highlights that something is entirely unacceptable.

entirely unacceptable

Stresses the comprehensive nature of the unacceptability.

utterly unacceptable

Implies a strong sense of unacceptability or outrage.

absolutely unacceptable

Indicates that something is definitively not acceptable.

patently unacceptable

Suggests the unacceptability is obvious or evident.

categorically unacceptable

Emphasizes a firm and unconditional rejection.

thoroughly unacceptable

Highlights the depth or extent of unacceptability.

plainly unacceptable

Suggests the unacceptability is clear and straightforward.

FAQs

How can I use "altogether unacceptable" in a sentence?

You can use "altogether unacceptable" to describe behavior, situations, or outcomes that are completely unacceptable. For example, "The level of disrespect shown during the meeting was "altogether unacceptable"".

What are some alternatives to "altogether unacceptable"?

Alternatives include "completely unacceptable", "totally unacceptable", or "wholly unacceptable", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more formal to say "altogether unacceptable" or "completely unacceptable"?

"Altogether unacceptable" can be perceived as slightly more formal than "completely unacceptable", but both are suitable for professional and formal settings.

When should I use "altogether unacceptable" instead of just "unacceptable"?

Use "altogether unacceptable" when you want to emphasize the complete and utter nature of the unacceptability. It adds a stronger sense of disapproval than simply saying "unacceptable".