an appalling act

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an appalling act" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action that is shocking, horrifying, or morally unacceptable. Example: "The community was left in shock after the news of the appalling act that took place last night."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Cameron says the killing of the three Israeli teenagers was an appalling act of terror.

The Guardian

The move was condemned by local politicians as "an appalling act of cultural vandalism".

The Guardian

"This is an appalling act of cultural vandalism," said Simon Cooke, the Conservative leader on Bradford city council.

The Guardian

The New York Times denounced the decision as an "appalling act of political cowardice" and the Association of Art Museum Directors decried it as "unwarranted and uninformed censorship".

The New Yorker

One Bradford councillor derided the plan as "an appalling act of cultural vandalism"; Richard Morrison, a cultural critic at the Times, dismissed it as "lunacy" and "Londoncentric nonsense".

The Guardian

But in its final moments it caves in to convention with a mawkish epilogue to a story that ends with an appalling act of selfishness.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Maybe that's why he was simmering, ready to boil over at the tweak of a nipple, although even if that is the case it does not excuse a truly appalling act.

The Guardian - Sport

This appalling act was a lynching threat that should provoke a criminal investigation in addition to the student's expulsion.

Huffington Post

"The apparent chemical weapons attack by the Assad regime is an appalling, unconscionable act by a bloodthirsty tyrant.

Huffington Post

His campaign is making phone calls saying Hillary supports this appalling act of terrorism.

The New York Times

In the context of the novel, and the appalling act which preceded that particular bit of narrative, the fictional character's loathing is entirely explicable and understandable.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase in formal writing or journalism to signal that the event described has moved beyond simple error into the realm of ethical shock.

Common error

Do not use "an appalling act" to describe minor everyday annoyances or technical errors. Using such a heavy phrase for trivial matters like a late train or a typo makes your writing seem hyperbolic and reduces your credibility in serious discussions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an appalling act" functions as a noun phrase typically used to categorize a specific event under a moral or ethical umbrella. In the examples provided by Ludwig, it often serves as a subject complement (e.g., "the killing was an appalling act") or the object of a preposition (e.g., "in response to an appalling act").

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Reference

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In conclusion, "an appalling act" is a robust and grammatically sound phrase designed for high-impact moral commentary. Data from Ludwig shows it is the preferred choice for elite journalists and politicians when a situation demands more than neutral description. Whether describing "an appalling act" of cultural vandalism or political violence, the phrase consistently delivers a message of profound ethical disapproval. It is most effective when the 'act' in question truly violates fundamental human values, ensuring that the speaker's outrage feels earned and significant.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a heinous crime

Strictly implies a severe legal and moral violation, often involving violence.

a shocking deed

Emphasizes the surprise or disbelief felt by witnesses rather than just the moral rot.

an unspeakable atrocity

Suggests a level of horror that is almost impossible to describe in words.

a reprehensible action

Provides a more clinical and formal tone, common in professional or ethical critiques.

a monstrous offense

Highlights the inhuman or cruel nature of the act.

an egregious violation

Commonly used in legal contexts to describe a blatant break of rules or human rights.

an outrageous incident

Focuses on the public outcry and the violation of social norms.

a deplorable occurrence

Focuses on the event being deeply regrettable and worthy of condemnation.

an abominable gesture

Often refers to symbolic actions or signals that are found to be disgusting.

a vile undertaking

Suggests a planned or intentional effort that is morally corrupt.

FAQs

How do I use "an appalling act" in a sentence?

A classic usage involves placing it as a predicate to describe a tragedy, such as: "The international community condemned the bombing as an appalling act of terror."

What can I say instead of "an appalling act"?

Depending on your specific context, you might use alternatives like "<a href="/s/a+heinous+crime" target="_blank" rel="alternative">a heinous crime", "<a href="/s/a+shocking+deed" target="_blank" rel="alternative">a shocking deed", or "<a href="/s/an+unspeakable+atrocity" target="_blank" rel="alternative">an unspeakable atrocity".

Is "an appalling act" considered formal English?

Yes, it is highly appropriate for formal contexts, especially in journalism, political speeches, and academic discussions of ethics or history.

What is the difference between "an appalling act" and "a shocking deed"?

While both describe horror, "<a href="/s/a+shocking+deed" target="_blank" rel="alternative">a shocking deed" emphasizes the element of surprise, whereas "an appalling act" focuses more heavily on the moral repugnance of the behavior.