degree of depravity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "degree of depravity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the extent or level of immoral or wicked behavior in a person or situation. Example: "The court considered the degree of depravity in the defendant's actions before determining the sentence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"As we get into it, I think it's going to demonstrate the degree of depravity in this mortgage business".

The New Yorker

James Madison put it well: "As there is a degree of depravity in mankind, which requires a certain degree of circumspection and distrust: So there are other qualities in human nature, which justify a certain portion of esteem and confidence".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The court heard that Bayley had a "degree of sexual depravity rarely seen" in the Australian system.

BBC

Witnessing that level of depravity was too much for me.

Vice

From that vantage point, I'm often in conversation with John Calvin's idea of depravity.

Huffington Post

Bloody violence, intimations of depravity.

The New York Times

He was at the Marianas Trench of depravity".

The New York Times - Magazine

Borrowing too much is a sign of depravity.

The Economist

There are images of depravity and strong language.

The New York Times

"They are perpetually exploring new depths of depravity in their efforts to shock".

Independent

Mr Kirk is supposed to be supremely trustworthy, a moral beacon in a sea of depravity.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, follow "degree of depravity" with specific examples or descriptions of the actions or behaviors that exemplify the stated level of moral corruption. This strengthens the impact and understanding of the phrase.

Common error

Ensure that you don't use "degree of depravity" loosely without providing sufficient context or examples. Vague use weakens the impact and can confuse the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "degree of depravity" functions as a noun phrase that quantifies the extent or intensity of moral corruption. It's used to describe the level of wickedness exhibited in actions, behaviors, or situations, as evidenced by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "degree of depravity" is a grammatically sound expression used to denote the extent or level of moral corruption. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It appears most frequently in news and media contexts, often to describe serious moral failings. While the phrase itself is neutral in tone, it carries significant weight due to the negative connotation of "depravity". Alternatives include "level of corruption" and "depth of wickedness", each offering a slightly different nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

level of depravity

The word "level" is a more generic noun than "degree".

level of corruption

Focuses on the corruption aspect, highlighting the depth of dishonesty and unethical behavior.

extent of immorality

Emphasizes the scope and reach of actions that violate moral principles.

depth of wickedness

Highlights the intensity and profound nature of evil or malicious behavior.

magnitude of sin

Specifically refers to the scale and impact of transgression against religious or moral laws.

degree of moral decay

Indicates the level of decline in moral standards and values.

depth of iniquity

Focuses on the severe injustice and wickedness present in a situation or person.

extent of degeneration

Emphasizes the process of decline and deterioration in moral character or behavior.

depth of vice

Highlights the immersion in immoral habits and behaviors.

scale of perversion

Focuses on the extent to which something has been distorted or corrupted from its original state.

FAQs

How can I use "degree of depravity" in a sentence?

You can use "degree of depravity" to describe the extent of immoral or wicked behavior. For example: "The court considered the "degree of depravity" in the defendant's actions before determining the sentence."

What's a good alternative to "degree of depravity"?

Alternatives include "level of corruption", "extent of immorality", or "depth of wickedness", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "degree of depravity" a formal or informal expression?

The phrase "degree of depravity" is suitable for formal contexts, such as legal or academic writing, due to its precise and somewhat clinical tone. However, it can also appear in news media when reporting on serious moral failings.

How does "degree of depravity" differ from "depth of depravity"?

While both phrases describe the extent of moral corruption, "degree of depravity" suggests a measured scale or level, whereas "depth of depravity" implies a profound immersion or intensity of wickedness.