condemn behaviour

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "condemn behaviour" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing disapproval or criticism of someone's actions or conduct. Example: "The organization decided to condemn behaviour that promotes discrimination and hate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Such criticisms call forth the spectre of terrorism to condemn behaviour that is no such thing.

The Economist

At first the disputes were little more than academic entertainments constructed around hypothetical cases, but as time went on, according to Holland, a case law of love arose, which people would use to win arguments or to explain, praise or condemn behaviour.

The Guardian

That people are sometimes guilty of hypocrisy, that they'll condemn behaviour in others that they engage in themselves, isn't exactly an earth-shattering revelation.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

As Glenn Greenwald puts it, "Huge numbers of people prance around flamboyantly condemning behaviour in which they themselves routinely engage".

The Guardian - Opinion

Instead, he gambled that the Press would itself quickly embrace the principles laid out by Lord Justice Leveson, who condemned behaviour on Fleet Street as at times "outrageous".

The Times

Alex McLeish, who had hoped to be savouring Nikola Zigic's 84th-minute winner and looking forward to a two-leg semi-final against West Ham, instead found himself condemning behaviour he described as reminiscent of "the dark ages".

Independent

"The WBC is absolutely condemning behaviours that are not to be accepted in boxing under any circumstances and will act as soon as it can proceed to impose the fines and sanctions as we consider necessary," a statement read.

BBC

The reaction from the various political parties involved has been incredibly predictable: the Greens firmly condemned the behaviour ("We condemn such behaviour and would expect other parties to do likewise," they said. "Sadly it's the sort of behaviour that seems to fit UKIP's track record of abusive language").

Vice

Indeed, the overwhelming majority condemn such behaviour, and Muslim men have helped and supported this research".

The Guardian

FFF believes that the unanimous indignation is enough to condemn such behaviour".

The Guardian - Sport

The second, he says, is the failure of the West to condemn that behaviour.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "condemn behaviour", ensure that the specific actions or conduct being condemned are clearly identified to avoid ambiguity and ensure your criticism is well-targeted.

Common error

Avoid using "condemn behaviour" in casual conversation; opt for simpler, more direct expressions of disapproval. Overusing formal language can sound stilted or insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "condemn behaviour" functions as a verb phrase where "condemn" acts as the verb and "behaviour" as its direct object. This is supported by Ludwig's examples, which show it used to express strong disapproval.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "condemn behaviour" is a grammatically sound and meaningful way to express strong disapproval of specific actions. While Ludwig identifies it as relatively rare in usage, it is perfectly suitable for formal contexts, particularly in news and media. When using the phrase, ensure that the behaviour being condemned is clearly defined. Stronger alternatives include "denounce conduct", while milder options include "criticize actions". As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase follows standard grammar rules.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

denounce conduct

Replaces "condemn" with "denounce" and "behaviour" with "conduct", implying a more public and formal expression of disapproval.

censure behavior

Substitutes "condemn" with "censure," indicating formal disapproval, often by an authority.

deplore behavior

Replaces "condemn" with "deplore," suggesting a feeling of strong disapproval and regret.

criticize actions

Uses "criticize" instead of "condemn" and "actions" instead of "behaviour", softening the tone to suggest evaluation rather than outright rejection.

rebuke actions

Substitutes "condemn" with "rebuke," indicating sharp disapproval or criticism.

reprobate actions

Replaces "condemn" with "reprobate", which is a stronger and more formal term for expressing disapproval.

express disapproval of actions

Replaces "condemn behaviour" with a more descriptive phrase that clearly conveys the sentiment.

find fault with conduct

Uses an idiomatic expression to indicate criticism, which is less direct than "condemn behaviour".

object to behaviour

Indicates disagreement and opposition, which is a milder form of condemnation.

take exception to behavior

Implies a personal grievance or feeling of offense, making the disapproval more subjective.

FAQs

What's a more formal alternative to "condemn behaviour"?

A more formal alternative is to "denounce conduct", which implies a public and authoritative expression of disapproval.

How can I soften the tone when expressing disapproval of behaviour?

Instead of "condemn behaviour", you could "criticize actions". This suggests an evaluation rather than outright rejection.

What does it mean to "condemn behaviour"?

To "condemn behaviour" means to express strong disapproval of someone's actions, often because they are considered morally wrong or unacceptable.

Is it always appropriate to use "condemn behaviour"?

While grammatically correct, "condemn behaviour" is a strong phrase. Consider the context and audience. In some cases, milder expressions like "disapprove of behaviour" may be more suitable.